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Researchers in Leipzig: UV-C radiation should defeat germs in classrooms!
Leipzig researchers are investigating UV-C radiation to reduce germs in public spaces using an innovative laboratory approach.
Researchers in Leipzig: UV-C radiation should defeat germs in classrooms!
A pioneering research project is underway in Leipzig that examines the disinfection of public spaces using UV-C radiation. Scientists from the Leipzig University of Technology, Economics and Culture (HTWK), the University of Leipzig as well as the Helmholtz Center for Environmental Research and the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research are working together to minimize the spread of viruses and bacteria in classrooms and other public facilities. This innovative study is supported by the Federal Ministry of Research with more than 2.5 million euros and takes place in a laboratory that is unique in Germany and has a volume of almost 200 cubic meters. Here, 30 air-filled dolls are used in a replica classroom to simulate realistic conditions.
The most important aspect of this research is the development of effective disinfection systems based on UV-C radiation. UV-C radiation has wavelengths between 100 and 280 nanometers and is known to kill bacteria and viruses. The BfS explains that this radiation comes from artificial sources and is filtered out by the earth's atmosphere, so that it does not occur in nature.
Risks and security aspects
Despite its disinfectant properties, UV-C radiation also poses health risks. Eyes and skin in particular can be damaged, leading to acute reactions such as photokeratitis or even long-term consequences such as DNA damage. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified all wavelengths of UV radiation as potentially carcinogenic. Therefore, the use of UV-C disinfection devices, which typically work at 254 nanometers, should only be used with extreme caution in the presence of people.
The Federal Office for Radiation Protection warns against using open UV-C systems in the presence of people and recommends the use of closed units where there is no exposure for users. Nevertheless, newer systems that work with Far-UV-C (approx. 222 nm) are also coming onto the market and are advertised as being less risky. However, the health risks of these new technologies have not yet been fully investigated.
Applications of UV-C disinfection
The diverse areas of application of UV-C technology include not only the disinfection of surfaces and indoor air, but also water treatment and, to a limited extent, use in food. What remains crucial, however, is that UV-C disinfection is not intended for living beings. Users are encouraged to pay attention to the manufacturer's instructions, which include important information about wavelengths, irradiance and the dose required for effective disinfection. This is the only way to ensure that manufacturers and users are responsible for safety in public spaces.
In summary, the project in Leipzig shows how important innovative approaches and, at the same time, safety-conscious applications are in order to overcome the challenges posed by pathogens in schools and other public institutions. With the detailed examination of UV-C radiation, there could be fewer health risks and the hygiene in our rooms could be significantly improved. Borkener Zeitung continues to report on the progress of this important research that could revolutionize our understanding of cleanliness and health.