Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) or UV disinfection has become an effective, safe, and sustainable technology for controlling pathogenic microorganisms across multiple sectors. Below is a detailed description of its main advantages, organized by areas of application, highlighting its positive impact on public health, industry, and production processes.
Air disinfection
UVGI applied to air disinfection offers a highly effective solution for the inactivation of airborne bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Its main advantage is the ability to reduce microbial load in enclosed spaces without altering air quality or generating chemical by-products. It is especially useful in HVAC systems, hospitals, laboratories, offices, and public transportation, where it helps reduce the transmission of respiratory diseases. In addition, it operates continuously, does not rely on human behavior, and produces no odors or residues, making it a discreet, low-maintenance solution.
Surface disinfection
In surface disinfection, UVGI stands out for its speed and effectiveness, as it can eliminate microorganisms within seconds or minutes, depending on the applied dose. Unlike chemical disinfectants, it leaves no residues, does not cause corrosion, and does not damage most materials when used correctly. This is particularly advantageous in environments requiring strict hygiene, such as operating rooms, cleanrooms, laboratories, and production areas. Furthermore, it reduces dependence on chemical products, minimizing risks to personnel and environmental impact.
Disinfection of water and other liquids
UVGI is widely used in the treatment of drinking water, wastewater, and other liquids, providing effective disinfection without altering the physical or chemical properties of the fluid. One of its main advantages is that it does not generate harmful by-products, unlike some chemical treatments, and preserves the taste, odor, and composition of the water. Additionally, it acts immediately and is effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including those resistant to other disinfection methods, making it a reliable and sustainable solution for industrial and municipal applications.
Applications in the food industry
In the food sector, UVGI disinfection helps improve food safety and extend product shelf life. It is used to disinfect work surfaces, conveyor belts, packaging, air in processing rooms, and certain liquids, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Among its advantages is that it does not alter the organoleptic properties of food nor require chemical additives, aligning with the demand for more natural and product-friendly processes.
Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry
In the pharmaceutical industry, UVGI is a key tool for maintaining controlled, contamination-free environments. Its use in cleanrooms, equipment, air, and surfaces helps meet strict quality standards and health regulations. The main advantage lies in its ability to be integrated into automated processes, ensuring reproducible, validated, and contact-free disinfection. In addition, it reduces the risk of microbial contamination without introducing substances that could interfere with active ingredients or manufacturing processes.
Packaging processes
The application of UVGI in packaging lines provides rapid and effective disinfection of containers, caps, and contact materials, improving the safety of the final product. A key advantage is that it allows operation at high production speeds without compromising effectiveness, optimizing industrial efficiency. Moreover, since it does not require heat or chemical agents, it is ideal for sensitive packaging and helps reduce operating costs and downtime.
Applications in the healthcare sector
In healthcare settings, UVGI provides significant added value in the prevention of healthcare-associated infections. Its use in rooms, operating theaters, medical equipment, air, and surfaces helps reduce microbial load as a complement to traditional cleaning protocols. Key advantages include the reduction of nosocomial infections, standardized disinfection processes, and improved safety for both patients and healthcare professionals. Additionally, its non-invasive nature and effectiveness against multidrug-resistant pathogens make it a strategic technology for modern healthcare systems.
Overall, UVGI disinfection represents a versatile, efficient, and sustainable solution capable of adapting to multiple sectors and needs, offering clear advantages over traditional methods and contributing to safer and healthier environments.
In summary: UV disinfection is a cleaning and sterilisation method that uses ultraviolet radiation to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi on surfaces, water and air.
UV radiation damages the DNA of microorganisms, which prevents their reproduction and survival.
It is an effective and safe method to disinfect different types of surfaces, equipment and environments, and is used in hospitals, laboratories, water treatment plants, air conditioning systems, among other places.
However, to guarantee effectiveness against germs and the safety of operators, it is important to use properly calculated and appropriate equipment for each use. A given piece of equipment may be insufficient for another use for which it was originally intended.
At UVINFRA we calculate each installation to determine the most appropriate equipment.
