How Does UV Work?
A UV sterilizer kills germs by emitting ultraviolet (UV) light, specifically UV-C light, which has powerful germicidal properties. The UV-C light, with a wavelength between 200-280 nm, penetrates the cell walls of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It targets the genetic material—either DNA or RNA—within these organisms. This exposure causes the formation of thymine dimers, which are abnormal bonds in the DNA, leading to a distortion in its structure. As a result, the microorganism loses its ability to replicate or produce essential proteins. Without the ability to replicate, the germs can't spread or cause infections. Prolonged exposure to UV-C light leads to severe damage, eventually causing the death of the microorganism. UV sterilizers are highly effective for disinfection, commonly used in healthcare settings, water purification, air purification, and personal devices to eliminate harmful germs without the use of chemicals.
