Recent research from Columbia University Irving Medical Center shows that far-UVC light can inactivate more than 99.9% of coronaviruses in airborne droplets. Unlike conventional UV-C, this wavelength is safe for humans, opening new possibilities for infection control in public spaces.

What Is Far-UVC Light?

Traditional germicidal UV-C operates at 254 nm, which kills viruses but also damages skin and eyes. Far-UVC, operating at 207–222 nm, is different:

• It cannot penetrate the outer dead layers of skin or the eye’s tear layer.
• It effectively destroys pathogens while remaining safe for human exposure.
• It is suitable for use in occupied indoor environments such as hospitals, schools, offices, and public transport.

This breakthrough means UV-C disinfection is no longer limited to unoccupied rooms or enclosed devices: it can now be applied directly in real-world settings.

How Far-UVC Light Kills Coronaviruses

In the Columbia study, researchers aerosolized two common coronaviruses and exposed them to far-UVC light. Results showed:

• 99.9% virus inactivation with minimal exposure.
• Continuous exposure achieved 90% reduction in 8 minutes, 95% in 11 minutes, 99% in 16 minutes, and 99.9% in 25 minutes.

Since far-UVC works by destroying the virus’ protein coating, it is equally effective against different coronavirus strains, including SARS-CoV-2.

Safe Disinfection in Public Spaces

Far-UVC light could transform hygiene strategies in high-traffic areas:

• Hospitals and clinics
• Public transport (buses, planes, trains)
• Schools, offices, and restaurants
• Gyms, theaters, and event venues

When combined with traditional measures such as masks and hand hygiene, far-UVC could significantly reduce viral transmission in everyday environments.

The Business Opportunity

Demand for safe, continuous disinfection has grown dramatically since COVID-19. Far-UVC technology offers brands and organizations a way to lead in public health innovation, delivering safety without compromising human exposure standards.

At Light Tree Ventures (LTV), we design and manufacture devices that integrate UV and far-UVC technology. If your company is exploring opportunities in hygiene, healthcare, or public safety, you can Request a Quote today to discuss your project.

Our Private Label Options enable you to bring customized far-UVC solutions to market, backed by ISO13485-certified manufacturing and global regulatory compliance. For a faster route, our White Label Solutions allow you to Start Your Project Today with safe, ready-to-brand devices.

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References

Health Europa. (2020, May 12). Study shows 99.9% of coronaviruses killed by far-UVC light. Retrieved from https://www.healtheuropa.eu/study-shows-99-9-of-coronaviruses-killed-by-far-uvc-light/100930/

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