Far-UVC (222 nm) disinfection performance in residential spaces: Experimental study on Bacillus subtilis contamination
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Amid the challenges of infectious diseases, especially the COVID-19 pandemic, substantial technological advancements and research efforts have focused on mitigating infection spread. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) using a 254 nm wavelength has been widely utilized for sterilization due to its proven efficacy in microbial inactivation. However, the risk of skin and eye complications from direct human exposure limits its use in general environments. As a result, UV-based methods with safer wavelengths, such as far-UVC (222 nm), have been developed to ensure human safety while effectively inactivating microorganisms. This study aimed to improve sanitary conditions in mock-up apartment settings by evaluating the disinfection performance of far-UVC against Bacillus subtilis contamination. The experiment targeted shoe racks and bathrooms, each tested under varying irradiation distances and times. The results demonstrated a 91% reduction in contamination on shoe racks after approximately 5 minutes of irradiation and a 50% reduction in bathrooms after around 4 hours. The calculated k values for B. subtilis at 222 nm were 0.196 m²/J (R²=0.98) for the shoe racks and 0.202 m²/J (R²=0.81) for the bathrooms, closely matching the manufacturer-provided value (0.1956 m²/J). Additionally, the study confirmed the safety of far-UVC technology for human exposure, meeting IEC 62471 standards, and supporting its application in residential spaces. These findings provide valuable insights into the practical use of far-UVC for microbial contamination control in indoor environments, which is particularly significant in addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Source: Results in Engineering
Authors: Jong-Il Bang, Ye-Lim Jo, Eun-Tack Lee, Minki Sung
Institutions: Sejong University, Samsung (South Korea)
Language: English
Subfield: Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,490
Award: G2801389299
OpenAlex ID: W4405107513