Guide: UVC Disinfection for Air – Functionality, Benefits, and Systems

Why is air disinfection important?

Indoor spaces contain numerous pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or mold spores that spread through droplet infection or aerosols. Especially in enclosed spaces with many people, such as offices, schools, or public facilities, the risk of infection increases. An effective method for germ reduction is UVC disinfection, as it works without chemicals and directly targets the pathogens.

How does UVC air disinfection work?

The UVC technology uses ultraviolet light with a wavelength of about 254 nm. This radiation destroys the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing. The sterilization takes place in special UVC disinfection systems that ensure safe and effective germ reduction.

Why is UVC disinfection the best choice?

• Effective germ reduction: Captures even resistant pathogens and inactivates them safely.
• Chemical-free disinfection: Leaves no residues or harmful by-products.
• Immediate effect: Neutralizes microorganisms within seconds of contact.
• Sustainable solution: Scores with low energy consumption and avoids ongoing costs for consumables.

Variants of UVC air disinfection

1. Passive system with open emitter

These systems rely on open UVC lamps that radiate directly into the room air.

• Advantages: High efficiency, as the room air is irradiated immediately, low-maintenance operation as there are no moving parts.
• Disadvantages: Direct UVC radiation damages skin and eyes, use only in the absence of people or in shielded areas.

Typical applications: Sterilization of unused rooms (e.g., at night in hospitals, laboratories, production areas), high-risk areas with high germ load.

2. Active system with fan

Here, a closed UVC disinfection device guides the room air past the UVC lamp using a fan and releases the purified air again.

• Advantages: Safe operation during the presence of people, even air circulation and continuous disinfection, no ozone formation or chemical residues.
• Disadvantages: Lower efficiency per unit of time than open emitters, as the air must actively flow through the device, regular maintenance of the fan required.

Typical applications: Schools, offices, waiting rooms, restaurants, gyms, areas with continuous movement of people.

Conclusion

UVC disinfection is a sustainable, chemical-free, and effective method for air purification. Passive systems with open emitters allow for direct, rapid germ reduction, but can only be used under certain safety precautions. Active systems with fans, on the other hand, allow for continuous air disinfection during ongoing operation, thus ensuring clean indoor air. Depending on the location and requirements, the appropriate UVC solution can be freely chosen to effectively reduce the risk of infection.