The Photonics Department of the Danish Technical University, DTU Fotonik, and DOLL Quality Lab organized a one day seminar at DTU Risø Campus about UV light sources for medical, industrial and Covid-19 applications.
DTU Fotonik is an important player in the research of UV light for health applications. In particular, the Diode Laser and LED System group, headed by Prof. Paul Michael Petersen, works on the development of new photonic technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. They have observed that ultraviolet light has a promising potential for reducing infection in humans, suggesting a new treatment concept for chronic infections around implants. These systems based on nanotechnology and photon activated disinfection could reduce the need for surgical treatments or antibiotics, fighting thus antibiotic resistance, one of the biggest threats to global health.
UV Medico was invited to speak about Far UV-C technology. We were excited to contribute to this seminar, and spread awareness about the properties of filtered 222-nm radiation. Peter Tønning , PhD and Senior Systems Engineer, presented the efficacy, safety and availability of Far UV-C for the disinfection of occupied spaces.
Far UV-C light is a breakthrough for the deactivation of pathogens in a safe way, which makes it interesting for the industry and the medical sector. Hospital acquired infections (HAI) are a significant burden for the healthcare system. In 2016 and 2017, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control coordinated a study in European hospitals and care facilities, estimating 8.9 millions HAI every year. In addition, the pandemic has raised more concerns about the hygiene standards applied in healthcare settings. New and stricter guidelines have been created to mitigate the risks of infection, however, standard disinfection measures, such as hand sanitizer and face masks, are behaviour dependent and difficult to monitor. Therefore, demands for disinfecting solutions better integrated in our daily activities have emerged since the beginning of Covid-19.
Conclusions of the day
During this seminar, different participants discussed the germicidal potential of Far UV-C light. They agreed on the safety and efficacy of 222-nm light for the deactivation of pathogens, making it a promising technology with numerous applications. In particular, it was emphasized its benefits as a new form of passive disinfection of air and surfaces for occupies spaces. Unlike standard measures, Far UV-C lamps efficacy is not dependent on human behaviour, and they can seamlessly provide a protective barrier against viruses and bacteria.
