UVC light in the wavelength of 207-222nm has been found to efficiently kill bacteria and viruses without causing damage to human cells. At these wavelengths, penetration of UV light is harmlessly absorbed by the outer layer of dead skin, wheareas longer-wavelength UV light outside of this range can cause severe tissue damage.
Challenges in UVC Filter Design
UV light sources include excimer lamps, xenon lamps, mercury vapor lamps, deuterium arc lamps and UV LEDs. Many UV lamps emit longer wavelengths that are damaging to human skin (245-390nm) and need to be blocked.
Most materials do not transmit well and can be damaged in this wavelength region due to absorption and scatter. Special Coating materials are required.
Work in the UVC region should fall within the MPE limits of the US Navy UV radiation Guidelines (1992).
Omega Optical offer advanced expertise in design, prototyping and high-volume production of custom UV and other filters. Contact us for further information and to discuss your requirements.
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