Who discovered ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet lamp for home use: types, how to choose, which manufacturer is better

The sun sends us light, heat and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. We are all affected ultraviolet radiation, coming from the sun, as well as from artificial sources used in industry, trade and other sectors of the economy.

The ultraviolet radiation region includes waves in the range of 100 – 400 nm and is conventionally divided into three groups:

• UV-A (UVA) (315–400 nm)
• UVB (280–315 nm)
• UV-C (UVC) (100–280 nm)

The influence of natural factors on the level of ultraviolet radiation:

Height of the Sun

Latitude

Cloudiness

Height

Ozone

Reflection from the Earth's surface

1. More than 90% of UV radiation can penetrate through light cloud cover.
2. Clean snow reflects up to 80% of UV radiation.
3. UV radiation increases by 4% for every 300 m rise.
4. People who work indoors are exposed to 5-10 times less UV radiation per year than people who work outdoors.
5. In water at a depth of 0.5 m, the level of UV radiation is 40% of the level of UV radiation at the surface.
6. 60% of total number We receive UV radiation in the period from 10-00 to 14-00 hours.
7. Shade reduces UV radiation levels by 50% or more.
8. White sand reflects up to 15% of UV radiation.

Effects of ultraviolet radiation on health

Small amounts of ultraviolet radiation are beneficial and necessary for the production of vitamin D. Ultraviolet radiation is also used to treat several diseases, including rickets, psoriasis and eczema. Treatment is carried out under medical supervision, taking into account the benefits of treatment and the risks of exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
However, long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation in humans can lead to acute and chronic damage to the skin, eyes and immune system.
A popular misconception is that only fair-skinned people should be concerned about excessive "sun exposure." Darker skin has higher levels of the protective pigment melanin. People with such skin have a lower incidence of skin cancer. However, skin cancer is also diagnosed in this population, but often at a later and more dangerous stage.
The risk of damage to the eyes and immune system from ultraviolet radiation does not depend on skin type.
The most commonly known acute lesions resulting from excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation are sunburn and tanning, with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation causes degenerative changes in cells and blood vessels, which leads to premature aging of the skin. Ultraviolet radiation can also cause acute eye damage.
Chronic lesions include skin cancer and cataracts.
Every year there are 2-3 million cases of non-malignant skin cancer and 132,000 cases of skin melanoma. While non-malignant skin cancer can be removed surgically and is rarely fatal, malignant melanoma is one of the leading causes of death in the fair-skinned population.
Each year, approximately 12 to 15 million people go blind due to cataracts. Studies have shown that up to 20% of blindness may be caused or worsened by sun exposure, especially in India, Pakistan and other countries close to the equator.
There is also speculation that ultraviolet radiation may increase the risk of infectious diseases and limit the effectiveness of vaccinations.
However, despite all of the above, many consider intense tanning to be normal. Children, teenagers and their parents perceive tanning as an indicator of attractiveness and good health.

Risk group

• Prolonged sun exposure during childhood increases the risk of developing skin cancer later and can cause serious damage to the eyes.
• All children under 15 have sensitive skin and eyes - protect them and set a good example for them!
• Children under one year old should not be exposed to direct sunlight!
• Parents, protect your children from the sun! Teach them about sunscreen use and sun exposure!

Health effects of ozone depletion

Depletion of the ozone layer is likely to increase the adverse effects of ultraviolet radiation, since stratospheric ozone is an effective absorber of ultraviolet radiation.
As the ozone layer decreases, the protective filter provided by the atmosphere decreases. Accordingly, the population and the environment are exposed to more high degree ultraviolet radiation, especially UVB radiation, which has big influence on the health of people, animals, marine organisms and plant life.
Computational models predict that a 10% decrease in stratospheric ozone could cause an additional 300,000 non-cancerous skin cancers, 4,500 malignant skin cancers, and 1.6 to 1.75 million cases of cataracts annually.

GLOBAL SOLAR ULTRAVIOLET (UV) INDEX

Introduction

Since the 1970s, there has been an increase in the incidence of skin cancer among fair-skinned people. This increase is associated with the population's habits of being “in the sun” under its ultraviolet component and the generally accepted opinion about the attractiveness and benefits of tanning.
Thus, there is an urgent need to increase public awareness about harmful effects ultraviolet radiation, with the goal of changing the habits of the population to prevent the trend of increasing cases of skin cancer.
The Global Ultraviolet Index is a simplified measure of the level of ultraviolet radiation on the Earth's surface and an indicator of potential skin hazards. It serves as a means of raising public awareness and warning of the need to take protective measures against exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
The UVI was developed by the World Health Organization with the assistance of the United Nations Human Rights Program environment, World Meteorological Organization, International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection, German Federal Office for Radiation Protection.
Since the first announcement in 1995, several international expert meetings have been held (Les Diablerets; Baltimore, 1996; Les Diablerets, 1997; Munich, 2000) to streamline public education about UVR and promote the use of UVR as a means of sun protection.

What is the Global Solar Ultraviolet Index?

The global solar UV index (UVI, UV index, UVI) characterizes the level of solar ultraviolet radiation at the Earth's surface. The UV index takes values ​​from zero and above. Moreover, the higher the UV index value, the more potential danger for human skin and eyes, etc. less time required to cause harm to health.
UV index values ​​correspond to levels of exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun in the following categories:

Why do you need an ultraviolet index?

The UV index is important means Raising public awareness of the risks of excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation and warning about the need to use sunscreen. The level of ultraviolet radiation and, therefore, the UV index values ​​vary throughout the day. Usually the maximum value of ultraviolet radiation observed in a 4-hour period around solar noon is shown. Sunny noon lasts from 12 noon to 2 pm.
When people make plans for the day and decide “what to go out in,” they are usually guided by the weather forecast (or the view from the window) and especially the air temperature forecast.
Likewise temperature scale, The UV index shows the level of ultraviolet radiation and possible danger influence of the Sun.
Knowing the UV index forecast can help everyone make healthy choices.

Even for people with very sensitive fair skin, the risk of harm to health is minimal at UV index values ​​below 3 and under normal circumstances the use of protective products is not required.
Protection is required for UV index values ​​above 3, increased protective measures are required for UV index values ​​of 8 and above. In this case, you need to use all protective equipment:

• Limit exposure to the sun during midday hours.
• Stay in the shadows.
• Wear long sleeves.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your eyes, face and neck.
• Protect your eyes with fitted glasses.
• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15+. Do not use sunscreen to extend your sun exposure.
• Protect your little ones: This is especially important.

Myths and reality

REMEMBER!

• Tanning does not stop ultraviolet radiation! Even if your skin is tanned, limit sun exposure to midday hours and use sun protection measures.
• Limit your sunbathing time! A tan is an indication that your skin has received an overdose of ultraviolet radiation! Protect your skin!
• Wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, protective clothing, and SPF 15+ sunscreen.
• Using sunscreen is not a means of extending your time in the sun, but of reducing the health risks of being in the sun.
• Taking certain medications, as well as using perfumes and deodorants, make the skin more sensitive, causing severe sunburn.
• Exposure to the sun increases the risk of developing skin cancer, accelerates skin aging and damages the eyes. Protect yourself!
• Shadow is one of the best means protection from solar radiation. Try to stay in the shade during the midday hours, when UV radiation is highest.
• Cloudy skies do not prevent sunburn. Ultraviolet radiation penetrates clouds.
• Remember that damage to the skin and eyes is caused by ultraviolet radiation, which cannot be seen or felt - DO NOT BE FOOLED BY MODERATE TEMPERATURES!
• If you expect to be on outdoors During the day, don't forget sunscreen, a hat and long sleeves.
• When on the ski slopes, don't forget that altitude and clear snow can double your UV exposure, and don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen! In the mountains, the level of ultraviolet radiation increases by approximately 10% every 1000 m.

• Information sources:
  1. Materials from the website of the World Health Organization (WHO).
  http://www.who.int/uv/intersunprogramme/activities/uv_index/en/index.html
  2."Global Solar UV Index. A Practical Guide". "Global Solar UV Index. Practical guide", WHO 2002
  http://www.who.int/uv/publications/globalindex/en/index.html
  The guidelines are recommended by the World Health Organization, World Meteorological Organization, United Nations Environment Programme, International Commission on protection against non-ionizing radiation.

  Forecast of UV index and ozone layer thickness provided.

The Sun, like other stars, emits not only visible light- it produces a whole spectrum electromagnetic waves, differing in frequency, length and amount of transferred energy. This spectrum is divided into ranges from radiation to radio waves, and the most important among them is ultraviolet, without which life is impossible. Depending on the various factors UV radiation can be both beneficial and harmful.

Ultraviolet is a section electromagnetic spectrum, located between visible and x-ray radiation and having a wavelength from 10 to 400 nm. It received this name precisely because of its location - just beyond the range that is perceived by the human eye as violet.

The ultraviolet range is measured in nanometers and is divided into subgroups in accordance with the international ISO standard:

• near (long wavelength) - 300−400 nm;
• medium (medium wave) - 200−300 nm;
• long-range (short-wavelength) - 122−200 nm;
• extreme - wavelength is 10−121 nm.

Depending on which group ultraviolet radiation belongs to, its properties may change. Thus, the vast majority of the range is invisible to humans, but near ultraviolet can be seen if it has a wavelength of 400 nm. Such violet light is emitted, for example, by diodes.

Because the different ranges Lights differ in the amount of energy transferred and frequency, subgroups differ significantly in penetrating ability. For example, when exposed to humans, near-UV rays are blocked by the skin, while mid-wave radiation can penetrate cells and cause DNA mutations. This property is used in biotechnology to produce genetically modified organisms.

As a rule, on Earth you can only encounter near and mid-ultraviolet radiation: such radiation comes from the Sun without being blocked by the atmosphere, and is also generated artificially. It is rays of 200−400 nm that play a big role in the development of life, because with their help plants produce oxygen from carbon dioxide. Hard short-wave radiation, which is dangerous for living organisms, does not reach the surface of the planet thanks to the ozone layer, which partially reflects and absorbs photons.

Ultraviolet sources

Natural generators electromagnetic radiation are the stars: in progress thermonuclear fusion, occurring at the center of the star, a full spectrum of rays is created. Accordingly, the bulk of ultraviolet radiation on Earth comes from the Sun. The intensity of radiation reaching the surface of the planet depends on many factors:

• thickness of the ozone layer;
• the height of the Sun above the horizon;
• height above sea level;
• atmospheric composition;
• weather;
• coefficient of reflection of radiation from the Earth's surface.

There are many myths associated with solar ultraviolet radiation. Thus, it is believed that you cannot tan in cloudy weather, however, although cloudiness affects the intensity of UV radiation, most of it can penetrate through clouds. In the mountains and winter at sea level, it may seem that the risk of harm from ultraviolet radiation is minimal, but in fact it even increases: high altitude the radiation intensity increases due to the rarefaction of the air, and snow cover becomes an indirect source of ultraviolet radiation, since up to 80% of the rays are reflected from it.

You need to be especially careful on a sunny but cold day: even if you don’t feel the heat from the Sun, there is always ultraviolet radiation. Heat and UV rays are at opposite ends of the visible spectrum and have different wavelengths. When infrared radiation In winter, it passes tangentially to the Earth and is reflected; ultraviolet always reaches the surface.

Natural UV radiation has a significant drawback - it cannot be controlled. Therefore, artificial sources of ultraviolet radiation are being developed for use in medicine, sanitation, chemistry, cosmetology and other fields. The required range of the electromagnetic spectrum is generated in them by heating gases electrical discharge. Typically, the rays are emitted by mercury vapor. This principle of operation is characterized different types lamps:

• luminescent - additionally produce visible light due to the effect of photoluminescence;
• mercury-quartz - emit waves with a length from 185 nm (hard ultraviolet) to 578 nm (orange);
• bactericidal - have a flask made of special glass that blocks rays shorter than 200 nm, which prevents the formation of toxic ozone;
• excilamps - do not have mercury, ultraviolet radiation is emitted in the general range;
• - thanks to the electroluminescence effect, they can work in any narrow range from ultraviolet to ultraviolet.

IN scientific research, experiments, biotechnology, special ultraviolet are used. The source of radiation in them can be inert gases, crystals or free electrons.

Thus, different artificial ultraviolet sources generate radiation of different subtypes, which determines their scope of application. Lamps operating in the range >300 nm are used in medicine,<200 - для обеззараживания и т. д.

Areas of application

Ultraviolet light can accelerate some chemical processes, for example, the synthesis of vitamin D in human skin, the degradation of DNA molecules and polymer compounds. In addition, it causes a photoluminescence effect in some substances. Thanks to these properties, artificial sources of this radiation are widely used in a variety of fields.

Medicine

First of all, the bactericidal property of ultraviolet radiation has found application in medicine. With the help of UV rays, the growth of pathogenic microorganisms in case of wounds, frostbite, and burns is suppressed. Blood irradiation is used for poisoning with alcohol, drugs and medications, inflammation of the pancreas, sepsis, and severe infectious diseases.

Irradiation with a UV lamp improves the patient’s condition in diseases of various body systems:

• endocrine - vitamin D deficiency, or rickets, diabetes mellitus;
• nervous - neuralgia of various etiologies;
• musculoskeletal - myositis, osteomyelitis, osteoporosis, arthritis and other joint diseases;
• genitourinary - adnexitis;
• respiratory;
• skin diseases - psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema.

It should be borne in mind that ultraviolet radiation is not the main means of treating the listed diseases: irradiation with it is used as a physiotherapeutic procedure that has a positive effect on the patient’s well-being. It has a number of contraindications, so you cannot use an ultraviolet lamp without consulting a doctor.

UV radiation is also used in psychiatry to treat “winter depression,” in which, due to a decrease in the level of natural sunlight, the synthesis of melatonin and serotonin in the body decreases, which affects the functioning of the central nervous system. For this purpose, special fluorescent lamps are used that emit a full spectrum of light from ultraviolet to infrared range.

Sanitation

The most useful is the use of ultraviolet radiation for the purpose of disinfection. To disinfect water, air and hard surfaces, low-pressure mercury-quartz lamps are used, generating rays with a wavelength of 205-315 nm. Such radiation is best absorbed by DNA molecules, which leads to disruption of the gene structure of microorganisms, which is why they stop reproducing and quickly die out.

Ultraviolet disinfection is characterized by the absence of a long-term effect: immediately after completion of the treatment, the effect subsides and microorganisms begin to multiply again. On the one hand, this makes disinfection less effective, on the other, it deprives it of its ability to negatively affect humans. UV irradiation cannot be used to completely treat drinking water or household liquids, but can be used as an adjunct to chlorination.

Irradiation with mid-wave ultraviolet is often combined with treatment with hard radiation with a wavelength of 185 nm. In this case, oxygen turns into oxygen, which is toxic to pathogenic organisms. This disinfection method is called ozonation, and it is several times more effective than conventional UV lamp illumination.

Chemical analysis

Because light of different wavelengths is absorbed by matter to different degrees, UV rays can be used for spectrometry, a method for determining the composition of matter. The sample is irradiated by an ultraviolet generator with a changing wavelength, absorbs and reflects part of the rays, on the basis of which a spectrum graph is constructed, unique for each substance.

The photoluminescence effect is used in the analysis of minerals, which contain substances that can glow when irradiated with ultraviolet light. The same effect is used to protect documents: they are marked with a special paint that emits visible light under a black light lamp. Also, using luminescent paint, you can determine the presence of UV radiation.

Among other things, UV emitters are used in cosmetology, for example, for tanning, drying and other procedures, in printing and restoration, entomology, genetic engineering, etc.

Negative effects of UV rays on humans

Although UV rays are widely used to treat diseases and have healing effects, ultraviolet radiation can also have a harmful effect on the human body. It all depends on how much energy will be transferred to living cells by solar radiation.

Short-wave rays (UVC type) have the most energy; in addition, they have the greatest penetrating power and can destroy DNA even in the deep tissues of the body. However, such radiation is completely absorbed by the atmosphere. Among the rays reaching the surface, 90% are long-wavelength (UVA) and 10% are medium-wavelength (UVB) radiation.

Long-term exposure to UVA rays or short-term exposure to ultraviolet UVB leads to a fairly large dose of radiation, which entails dire consequences:

• skin burns of varying severity;
• skin cell mutations leading to accelerated aging and melanoma;
• cataract;
• burn of the cornea of ​​the eye.

Delayed damage - skin cancer and cataracts - can develop over time; Moreover, UVA radiation can operate at any time of the year and in any weather. Therefore, you should always protect yourself from the sun, especially for people with increased photosensitivity.

UV protection

A person has a natural defense against ultraviolet radiation - melanin, contained in skin cells, hair, and the iris of the eye. This protein absorbs most of the ultraviolet radiation, preventing it from affecting other structures of the body. The effectiveness of protection depends on skin color, which is why UVA rays contribute to tanning.

However, with excessive exposure, melanin can no longer cope with UV rays. To prevent sunlight from causing harm, you should:

• try to stay in the shadows;
• wear closed clothes;
• protect your eyes with special glasses or contact lenses that block UV radiation but are transparent to visible light;
• use protective creams that contain mineral or organic substances that reflect UV rays.

Of course, it is not necessary to always use a full set of protective equipment. You should focus on the ultraviolet index, which describes the presence of excess UV radiation at the earth's surface. It can take values ​​from 1 to 11, and active protection is required at 8 points or more. Information about this index can be obtained from the weather forecast.

Thus, ultraviolet is a type of electromagnetic radiation that can be both beneficial and harmful. It is important to remember that sunbathing heals and rejuvenates the body only when used in moderation; Excessive exposure to light can lead to serious health problems.

UV radiation is electromagnetic waves that are invisible to the human eye. It occupies a spectral position between visible and X-ray radiation. The ultraviolet radiation interval is usually divided into near, middle and far (vacuum).

Biologists made such a division of UV rays so that they could better see the difference in the effect of rays of different lengths on a person.

• Near ultraviolet is commonly called UV-A.
• medium - UV-B,
• far - UV-C.

Ultraviolet radiation comes from the sun and the atmosphere of our planet Earth protects us from the powerful effects of ultraviolet rays. The sun is one of the few natural UV emitters. At the same time, far-ultraviolet UV-C is blocked almost completely by the Earth's atmosphere. Those 10% of long-wave ultraviolet rays reach us in the form of the sun. Accordingly, the ultraviolet that reaches the planet is mainly UV-A, and in small quantities UV-B.

One of the main properties of ultraviolet radiation is its chemical activity, due to which UV radiation has great influence on the human body. Short-wave ultraviolet radiation is considered the most dangerous for our body. Despite the fact that our planet protects us as much as possible from exposure to ultraviolet rays, if you do not take certain precautions, you can still suffer from them. Sources of short-wave radiation are welding machines and ultraviolet lamps.

Positive properties of ultraviolet light

Only in the 20th century did research begin to prove positive effects of UV radiation on the human body. The result of these studies was the identification of the following beneficial properties: strengthening human immunity, activating protective mechanisms, improving blood circulation, dilating blood vessels, increasing vascular permeability, increasing the secretion of a number of hormones.

Another property of ultraviolet light is its ability change carbohydrate and protein metabolism human substances. UV rays can also affect ventilation of the lungs - the frequency and rhythm of breathing, increasing gas exchange, and the level of oxygen consumption. The functioning of the endocrine system also improves; vitamin D is formed in the body, which strengthens the human musculoskeletal system.

Application of ultraviolet radiation in medicine

Quite often, ultraviolet light is used in medicine. Although ultraviolet rays can be harmful to the human body in some cases, they can also be beneficial when used correctly.

Medical institutions have long come up with useful uses for artificial ultraviolet light. There are various emitters that can help a person using ultraviolet rays cope with various diseases. They are also divided into those that emit long, medium and short waves. Each of them is used in a specific case. Thus, long-wave radiation is suitable for treating the respiratory tract, for damage to the osteoarticular apparatus, as well as in the case of various skin injuries. We can also see long-wave radiation in solariums.

Treatment performs a slightly different function mid-wave ultraviolet. It is prescribed mainly to people suffering from immunodeficiency and metabolic disorders. It is also used in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders and has an analgesic effect.

Shortwave radiation It is also used in the treatment of skin diseases, diseases of the ears, nose, damage to the respiratory tract, diabetes, and damage to the heart valves.

In addition to various devices emitting artificial ultraviolet light, which are used in mass medicine, there are also ultraviolet lasers, having a more targeted effect. These lasers are used, for example, in eye microsurgery. Such lasers are also used for scientific research.

Application of ultraviolet in other areas

In addition to medicine, ultraviolet radiation is used in many other areas, significantly improving our lives. So, ultraviolet is excellent disinfectant, and is used, among other things, for treating various objects, water, and indoor air. Ultraviolet light is widely used and in printing: It is with the help of ultraviolet that various seals and stamps are produced, paints and varnishes are dried, and banknotes are protected from counterfeiting. In addition to its beneficial properties, when applied correctly, ultraviolet light can create beauty: it is used for various lighting effects (most often this happens at discos and performances). UV rays also help in finding fires.

One of the negative consequences of ultraviolet exposure on the human body is electroophthalmia. This term refers to damage to the human organ of vision, in which the cornea of ​​the eye burns and swells, and a cutting pain appears in the eyes. This disease can occur if a person looks at the rays of the sun without special protective equipment (sunglasses) or stays in a snowy area in sunny weather with very bright light. Electroophthalmia can also be caused by quartzing premises.

Negative consequences can also be achieved due to long, intense exposure to ultraviolet rays on the body. There can be quite a lot of such consequences, including the development of various pathologies. The main symptoms of overexposure are

The consequences of strong radiation are the following: hypercalcemia, growth retardation, hemolysis, deterioration of immunity, various burns and skin diseases. People who constantly work outdoors, as well as those people who constantly work with devices that emit artificial ultraviolet light, are most susceptible to excessive exposure.

Unlike UV emitters used in medicine, tanning salons are more dangerous for a person. Visits to solariums are not controlled by anyone other than the person himself. People who often visit solariums in order to achieve a beautiful tan often neglect the negative effects of UV radiation, despite the fact that frequent visits to solariums can even lead to death.

The acquisition of darker skin color occurs due to the fact that our body fights the traumatic effects of UV radiation on it and produces a coloring pigment called melanin. And if redness of the skin is a temporary defect that goes away after some time, then freckles and age spots that appear on the body, which occur as a result of the proliferation of epithelial cells - permanent skin damage.

Ultraviolet light, penetrating deeply into the skin, can change skin cells at the genetic level and lead to ultraviolet mutagenesis. One of the complications of this mutagenesis is melanoma, a skin tumor. It is this that can lead to death.

To avoid the negative effects of exposure to UV rays, you need to provide yourself with some protection. At various enterprises working with devices that emit artificial ultraviolet radiation, it is necessary to use special clothing, helmets, shields, insulating screens, safety glasses, and a portable screen. People who are not involved in the activities of such enterprises need to limit themselves from excessive visits to solariums and long stays in the open sun, use sunscreens, sprays or lotions in the summer, and also wear sunglasses and closed clothing made from natural fabrics.

There are also negative consequences from a lack of UV radiation. Long-term absence of UVR can lead to a disease called “light starvation.” Its main symptoms are very similar to those of excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation. With this disease, a person’s immunity decreases, metabolism is disrupted, fatigue, irritability, etc. appear.

The life of people, plants and animals is in close connection with the Sun. It emits radiation that has special properties. Ultraviolet light is considered irreplaceable and vital. With its deficiency, extremely undesirable processes in the body begin, and a strictly dosed amount can cure serious diseases.

Therefore, an ultraviolet lamp for home use is necessary for many. Let's talk about how to choose it correctly.

Ultraviolet radiation is radiation that is invisible to humans and occupies the region between the X-ray and visible spectrum. The lengths of its constituent waves range from 10 to 400 nanometers. Physicists conditionally divide the ultraviolet spectrum into near and far, and also distinguish three types of rays that make it up. Radiation C is classified as hard radiation; with relatively long exposure it can kill living cells.

It is practically never found in nature, except high in the mountains. But it can be obtained under artificial conditions. Radiation B is considered to be of medium hardness. This is what affects people in the middle of a hot summer day. If used excessively, it can cause harm. And finally, the softest and most useful are type A rays. They can even cure a person from some diseases.

Ultraviolet has wide applications in medicine and other fields. First of all, because in its presence the body produces vitamin D, which is necessary for the normal development of a child and the health of adults. This element makes bones stronger, strengthens the immune system and allows the body to properly absorb a number of essential microelements.

In addition, doctors have proven that under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, serotonin, the hormone of happiness, is synthesized in the brain. This is why we love sunny days so much and fall into a kind of depression when the sky is overcast. In addition, ultraviolet light is used in medicine as a bactericidal, antimyotic and mutagenic agent. The therapeutic effect of radiation is also known.

The radiation of the ultraviolet spectrum is inhomogeneous. Physicists distinguish three groups of its constituent rays. The most dangerous group C rays for living things, the hardest radiation

Strictly dosed rays directed at a specific area give a good therapeutic effect for a number of diseases. A new industry has emerged - laser biomedicine, which uses ultraviolet light. It is used to diagnose ailments and to monitor the condition of organs after operations.

UV radiation is also widely used in cosmetology, where it is most often used to tan and combat certain skin problems.

Do not underestimate ultraviolet deficiency. When it appears, a person suffers from vitamin deficiency, immunity decreases and malfunctions in the functioning of the nervous system are diagnosed. A tendency to depression and mental instability develops. Taking all these factors into account, household versions of ultraviolet lamps for various purposes have been developed and are being produced for those interested. Let's get to know them better.

Irradiation with hard ultraviolet light for the purpose of disinfecting premises has been successfully used in medicine for decades. Similar activities can be carried out at home.

UV lamps: what are they?

Special ultraviolet lamps are produced designed for the normal growth of plants suffering from a lack of sunlight

It should be understood that destruction occurs only within the reach of the rays, which, unfortunately, are not able to penetrate very deeply into the wall or upholstery of upholstered furniture. To combat microorganisms, exposures of varying duration are required. It is tolerated worst of all by sticks and cocci. The most resistant to ultraviolet radiation are protozoan microorganisms, spore bacteria and fungi.

However, if you choose the irradiation time wisely, you can completely disinfect the room. This will take an average of 20 minutes. During this time, you can get rid of pathogens, mold and fungal spores, etc.

For quick and effective drying of various types of manicure gel polish, special ultraviolet lamps are used.

The operating principle of a standard UV lamp is extremely simple. It is a flask filled with mercury gas. Electrodes are attached to its ends.

When voltage is applied, an electric arc is formed between them, which evaporates the mercury, which becomes a source of powerful light energy. Depending on the design of the device, its main characteristics differ.

Quartz emitting devices

The bulb for these lamps is made of quartz, which has a direct impact on the quality of their radiation. They emit rays in the “hard” UV range of 205-315 nm. For this reason, quartz devices have an effective disinfecting effect. They cope very well with all known bacteria, viruses, other microorganisms, unicellular algae, spores of various types of mold and fungi.

Open type UV lamps can be compact. Such devices disinfect clothes, shoes and other items very well.

You need to know that UV waves with a length of less than 257 nm activate the formation of ozone, which is considered the strongest oxidizing agent. Thanks to this, during the disinfection process, ultraviolet light acts together with ozone, which makes it possible to destroy microorganisms quickly and effectively.

However, such lamps have a significant disadvantage. Their exposure is dangerous not only for pathogenic microflora, but also for all living cells. This means that during the disinfection process, animals, people and plants must be removed from the lamp's area of ​​effect. Given the name of the device, the disinfection procedure is called quartzization.

It is used for disinfection of hospital wards, operating rooms, catering establishments, industrial premises, etc. The simultaneous use of ozonation makes it possible to prevent the development of pathogenic microflora and rotting, and to preserve the freshness of products in warehouses or stores longer. Such lamps can be used for therapeutic purposes.

Germicidal ultraviolet emitters

The main difference from the device described above is the material of the flask. For bactericidal lamps it is made of uviol glass. This material blocks “hard” waves well, so ozone is not formed during equipment operation. Thus, disinfection is carried out only due to the influence of safer soft radiation.

Uviol glass, from which the bulb of bactericidal lamps is made, completely blocks hard radiation. For this reason, the device is less effective

Such devices do not pose a great threat to people and animals, but the time and exposure to pathogenic microflora should be significantly increased. Such devices are recommended for use at home. In medical institutions and similar institutions, they can function continuously. In this case, it is necessary to cover the lamps with a special casing, which will direct the glow upward.

This is necessary to protect the eyesight of visitors and workers. Germicidal lamps are absolutely safe for the respiratory system, since they do not emit ozone, but are potentially harmful to the cornea of ​​the eye. Prolonged exposure to it can lead to burns, which will eventually lead to deterioration of vision. For this reason, it is advisable to use special glasses to protect your eyes while operating the device.

Amalgam type devices

Improved and therefore safer to use ultraviolet lamps. Their peculiarity is that the mercury inside the flask is not present in a liquid state, but in a bound state. It is part of the solid amalgam covering the inner surface of the lamp.

Amalgam is an alloy of indium and bismuth with the addition of mercury. During the heating process, the latter begins to evaporate and emit ultraviolet radiation.

Inside amalgam-type ultraviolet lamps there is an alloy containing mercury. Due to the fact that the substance is bound, the device is completely safe even after damage to the flask

During the operation of amalgam-type devices, the emission of ozone is excluded, which makes them safe. The bactericidal effect is very high. The design features of such lamps make them safe even in case of careless handling. If the cold flask is broken for any reason, you can simply throw it in the nearest trash container. If the integrity of the burning lamp is damaged, everything is a little more complicated.

Mercury vapor will come out of it because the amalgam is hot. However, their number is minimal and they will not cause harm. In comparison, if a germicidal or quartz device breaks, there is a real threat to health.

Each of them contains about 3 g of liquid mercury, which can be dangerous if spilled. For this reason, such lamps must be disposed of in a special way, and the area where mercury is spilled must be treated by specialists.

Another advantage of amalgam appliances is their durability. Compared to analogues, their service life is at least twice as long. This is due to the fact that the flasks, coated with amalgam on the inside, do not lose their transparency. Whereas lamps with liquid mercury gradually become covered with a dense, slightly transparent coating, which significantly reduces their service life.

How not to make a mistake in choosing a device

Before making a decision to purchase a device, you should definitely determine whether it is really necessary. The purchase will be completely justified if there are some indications. The lamp can be used to disinfect premises, water, common objects, etc.

You need to understand that you shouldn’t get too carried away with this, since living in sterile conditions has a very adverse effect on the immune system, especially in children.

Before purchasing an ultraviolet lamp, you need to decide for what purpose it will be used. You need to understand that you need to use it very carefully and only after consulting your doctor.

Therefore, doctors recommend judicious use of the device in families with frequently ill children during seasonal illnesses. The device will be useful in the process of caring for bedridden patients, since it allows not only to disinfect the room, but also helps fight bedsores, eliminates unpleasant odors, etc. A UV lamp can cure some diseases, but in this case it is used only on the recommendation of a doctor.

Ultraviolet helps with inflammation of the ENT organs, dermatitis of various origins, psoriasis, neuritis, rickets, influenza and colds, in the treatment of ulcers and difficult-to-heal wounds, and gynecological problems. It is possible to use UV emitters at home for cosmetic purposes. In this way you can get a beautiful tan and get rid of skin problems, dry your nails coated with a special varnish.

In addition, special lamps for water disinfection and devices that stimulate the growth of house plants are produced. All of them have specific features that prevent them from being used for other purposes. Thus, the range of household UV lamps is very large. There are quite a few universal options among them, so before purchasing you need to know exactly for what purposes and how often the device will be used.

A closed-type ultraviolet lamp is the safest option for those indoors. The diagram of its operation is shown in the figure. The air is disinfected inside the protective housing

In addition, there are a number of factors that must be taken into account when choosing.

Type of household UV lamp

Manufacturers produce three types of equipment for working at home:

• Open lamps. Ultraviolet radiation from the source spreads unhindered. The use of such devices is limited by the characteristics of the lamp. Most often, they are turned on for a strictly defined time; animals and people are removed from the premises.
• Closed devices or recirculators. The air is supplied inside the protected housing of the device, where it is disinfected, and then enters the room. Such lamps are not dangerous to others, so they can work in the presence of people.
• Specialized equipment designed to perform specific tasks. Most often it is equipped with a set of tube attachments.

Device mounting method

The manufacturer suggests choosing a suitable model from two main options: stationary and mobile. In the first case, the device is secured to the location chosen for this purpose. No relocations are planned. Such devices can be fixed to the ceiling or wall. The last option is more popular. A distinctive feature of stationary devices is their high power, which allows them to process a room of large area.

More powerful, as a rule, devices with stationary mounting. They are mounted on the wall or ceiling so that during operation they cover the entire area of ​​the room.

Most often, closed recirculator lamps are produced in this design. Mobile devices are less powerful, but can be easily moved to another location. These can be either closed or open lamps. The latter are especially convenient for disinfecting small spaces: wardrobes, bathrooms and toilets, etc. Mobile devices are usually installed on the floor or on tables, which is quite convenient.

Moreover, floor-standing models have greater power and are quite capable of processing a room of impressive size. Most of the specialized equipment is mobile. Interesting models of UV emitters have appeared relatively recently. These are unique hybrids of a lamp and a bactericidal lamp with two operating modes. They work as lighting devices or disinfect a room.

UV emitter power

To use a UV lamp correctly, it is important that its power matches the size of the room in which it will be used. The manufacturer usually indicates the so-called “room coverage” in the technical data sheet of the product. This is the area that is affected by the device. If such information is not available, the power of the device will be indicated.

The coverage area of ​​the equipment and the time of its exposure depend on the power. When choosing a UV lamp, this must be taken into account

On average for rooms up to 65 cubic meters. m, a 15 W device will be sufficient. This means that such a lamp can be safely purchased if the area of ​​the rooms being treated is from 15 to 35 square meters. m with a height of no more than 3 m. More powerful specimens producing 36 W should be purchased for rooms with an area of ​​100-125 cubic meters. m at standard ceiling heights.

The most popular models of UV lamps

The range of ultraviolet emitters intended for home use is quite wide. Domestic manufacturers produce high-quality, efficient and quite affordable equipment. Let's consider several such devices.

Various modifications of the Solnyshko device

Under this brand, open-type quartz emitters of various powers are produced. Most models are designed for disinfection of surfaces and spaces whose area is no more than 15 square meters. m. In addition, the device can be used for therapeutic irradiation of adults and children over three years of age. The device is multifunctional, therefore it is considered universal.

The ultraviolet emitter Sun is especially popular. This universal device is capable of disinfecting space and performing therapeutic procedures, for which it is equipped with a set of special attachments

The case is equipped with a special protective screen, which is used during medical procedures and is removed when disinfecting the room. Depending on the model, the equipment is equipped with a set of special attachments or tubes for various therapeutic procedures.

Compact emitters Crystal

Another example of domestic production. It is a small mobile device. Intended exclusively for disinfection of spaces whose volume does not exceed 60 cubic meters. m. These parameters correspond to a room of standard height with an area of ​​no more than 20 square meters. m. The device is an open type lamp, and therefore requires proper handling.

The compact mobile UV emitter Crystal is very convenient to use. It is important to remember to remove plants, animals and people from its area of ​​effect

While the equipment is operating, plants, animals and people must be removed from the area of ​​its operation. Structurally, the device is very simple. There is no timer or automatic shutdown system. For this reason, the user must independently monitor the operating time of the device. If necessary, the UV lamp can be replaced with a standard fluorescent lamp and then the equipment will work like a regular lamp.

Bactericidal recirculators of the RZT and ORBB series

These are powerful closed-type devices. Designed for disinfection and air purification. The devices are equipped with a UV lamp, which is located inside a closed protective housing. Air is sucked into the device by the action of a fan, and after processing it is supplied outside. Thanks to this, the device can function in the presence of people, plants or animals. They do not receive negative impacts.

Depending on the model, the devices may be additionally equipped with filters that trap particles of dirt and dust. The equipment is mainly produced in the form of stationary devices with wall mounting; there are also ceiling versions. In some cases, the device can be removed from the wall and placed on a table.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Let's get acquainted with Sun UV lamps:

How does the Crystal bactericidal lamp work:

Choosing the right UV emitter for your home:

Ultraviolet light is necessary for every living creature. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to obtain it in sufficient quantities. In addition, UV rays are a powerful weapon against a wide variety of microorganisms and pathogenic microflora. Therefore, many people are thinking about buying a household ultraviolet emitter. When making a choice, do not forget that you need to use the device with extreme caution. It is necessary to strictly follow the recommendations of doctors and not to overdo it. Large doses of ultraviolet radiation are very dangerous for all living things.

Theoretically the question " How do infrared rays differ from ultraviolet rays?"could interest anyone. After all, both rays are part of the solar spectrum - and we are exposed to the sun every day. In practice, this question is most often asked by those who are planning to purchase devices known as infrared heaters and would like to make sure that such devices are absolutely safe for human health.

How do infrared rays differ from ultraviolet rays from a physics point of view?

As is known, in addition to the seven visible colors of the spectrum, beyond its limits there are also radiations invisible to the eye. In addition to infrared and ultraviolet, these include x-rays, gamma rays and microwaves.

Infrared and UV rays are similar in one thing: they both belong to that part of the spectrum that is not visible to the naked human eye. But that's where their similarities end.

Infrared radiation

Infrared rays were detected beyond the red boundary, between the long and short wave regions of this part of the spectrum. It is worth noting that almost half of solar radiation is infrared radiation. The main characteristic of these rays, invisible to the eye, is strong thermal energy: it is continuously emitted by all heated bodies.
Radiation of this type is divided into three areas according to such a parameter as wavelength:

• from 0.75 to 1.5 µm – near region;
• from 1.5 to 5.6 microns – average;
• from 5.6 to 100 microns – far.

You need to understand that infrared radiation is not a product of all sorts of modern technical devices, for example, IR heaters. This is a natural environmental factor that constantly affects humans. Our body continuously absorbs and emits infrared rays.

Ultraviolet radiation

The existence of rays beyond the violet end of the spectrum was proven in 1801. The range of ultraviolet rays emitted by the Sun ranges from 400 to 20 nm, but only a small part of the short-wave spectrum reaches the earth's surface - up to 290 nm.
Scientists believe that ultraviolet radiation plays a significant role in the formation of the first organic compounds on Earth. However, the impact of this radiation is also negative, leading to the disintegration of organic substances.
When answering the question, How does infrared radiation differ from ultraviolet radiation?, it is imperative to consider the impact on the human body. And here the main difference is that the effect of infrared rays is limited primarily to thermal action, while ultraviolet rays can also have a photochemical effect.
UV radiation is actively absorbed by nucleic acids, resulting in changes in the most important indicators of cell vital activity - the ability to grow and divide. It is DNA damage that is the main component of the mechanism of action of ultraviolet rays on organisms.
The main organ of our body that is affected by ultraviolet radiation is the skin. It is known that thanks to UV rays, the process of formation of vitamin D, which is necessary for the normal absorption of calcium, is triggered, and serotonin and melatonin are also synthesized - important hormones that affect a person’s circadian rhythms and mood.

Exposure to IR and UV radiation on the skin

When a person is exposed to sunlight, infrared and ultraviolet rays also affect the surface of his body. But the result of this impact will be different:

• Infrared rays cause a rush of blood to the surface layers of the skin, an increase in its temperature and redness (caloric erythema). This effect disappears immediately as soon as the irradiation ceases.
• Exposure to UV radiation has a latent period and may appear several hours after exposure. The duration of ultraviolet erythema ranges from 10 hours to 3-4 days. The skin turns red, may peel, and then its color becomes darker (tan).

It has been proven that excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation can lead to malignant skin diseases. At the same time, in certain doses, UV radiation is beneficial for the body, which makes it possible to use it for prevention and treatment, as well as to destroy bacteria in indoor air.

Is infrared radiation safe?

People's concerns about this type of device, such as infrared heaters, are quite understandable. In modern society, a stable tendency has already formed to treat many types of radiation with a fair amount of fear: radiation, X-rays, etc.
For ordinary consumers who are planning to purchase devices based on the use of infrared radiation, the most important thing to know is the following: infrared rays are completely safe for human health. This is precisely what is worth emphasizing when considering the question How do infrared rays differ from ultraviolet rays?.
Research has proven that long-wave infrared radiation is not only beneficial for our body - it is absolutely necessary for it. With a lack of infrared rays, the body’s immunity suffers, and the effect of its accelerated aging also manifests itself.


The positive effects of infrared radiation are no longer in doubt and are manifested in various aspects.