UV Water Disinfection
Ultraviolet light disinfects by disrupting the DNA or RNA structures of microorganisms. The disruption prevents
microorganisms from replicating, thereby rendering them inactive and unable to cause infection. The primary mechanism
of inactivation by UV is the creation of Pyrimidine Dimers which are bonds formed between adjacent pairs of thymine or
cytosine pyrimidines on the same DNA or RNA strand.
The 253.7 nm peak output level of low-pressure UV lamps is relevant for disinfection because it is very close to the 260-
265 nm range where DNA and RNA experience maximum UV absorption. Because the 253.7 nm wavelength is extremely
effective for disinfection, ultraviolet lamps that are installed for disinfecting water typically use quartz envelopes and
sleeves designed to “block” the 185 nm ultraviolet output and prevent the creation of ozone.
One of the primary benefits of UV for disinfection is that it does not contain nor create any residuals, or byproducts, such
as occur with chemical methods of purification. In fact, UV is sometimes used to remove residuals, such as chlorine,
peroxide, and ozone, that result from other purification processes.
Different species of microorganisms require varying levels of UV exposure, but nearly all can be effectively inactivated
with a fluence level of 30 to 40mJ/cm². With fluence levels in this range, UV systems are able to achieve a 4-log
reduction for most microorganisms. This is commonly referred to as a 99.99% reduction.
Ultraviolet disinfection of water is extremely effective when the water being treated is highly transmissive. With lower
levels of transmissivity it may be necessary to filter prior to UV treatment or use additional UV lamps to ensure sufficient
levels of treatment.
Spartan Environmental Technologies
Air and Water Treatment
Air and Water Treatment
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Phone: 800-492-1252
Fax: 440-368-3569
E-mail: info@
spartanwatertreatment.com
UV Water Disinfection
