Uses of Ultraviolet Lamps

Sun lamps have been used for years to treat jaundice in children.

Ultraviolet light has several uses in fields ranging from agriculture to the health industry. The natural light given off by the sun, ultraviolet light is both beneficial and dangerous. Varying wavelengths of ultraviolet light are used to help boost the economy by enhancing water quality, food sources and medical treatment for skin conditions. Knowing how to safely use ultraviolet light is beneficial to the farmer and the doctor.

Substitute For Sun's Light

Farmers know the importance of sunlight to yield a successful crop. Without it, plants would wither and die. Ultraviolet light is responsible for the chemical synthesis in plants that gives them their bright colors and growing capability. During rainy months, ultraviolet lights are used in greenhouses to ensure that plants do not lose nutrient value due to excessive moisture. Lighting systems are set to provide a specific amount of ultraviolet light throughout the day, without overwhelming the plant's delicate balance.

Disinfection

Hospitals, warehouses and doctors offices all rely on a clean, sterile workspace to eliminate infection and disease risks. Water purification also relies on these factors. Ultraviolet light is used to sterilize instruments in all fields as well as remove harmful chemicals and bacteria from drinking water. Emitting enough heat to destroy germs and other harmful agents, ultraviolet light is used in condensed form through lamps. These lamps are set above the equipment to be sterilized for several hours. They are also used in operating rooms to disinfect the air of any pathogens that may be lurking.

Skin Care

Tanning with ultraviolet light is a cosmetic practice that has been around for a long time. Tanning booths and beds offer condensed UV light as a way to make your skin glow and darken. Although deemed unhealthy by the United States government, sun lamps are still used on children and adults to treat certain medical conditions, such as jaundice. Jaundice refers to a skin condition, common in newborns, where the skin's bilirubin fails to be utilized properly, causing yellowing of the skin and eyes. Ultraviolet light breaks up the bilirubin and distributes it.

Decontamination

Food manufacturing and processing plants use ultraviolet lights to eliminate food contamination. Because more than one type of food may be processed with the same machinery, a way to kill bacteria and parasites is a must. For example, processing meats and then peanut butter could introduce such bacteria as salmonella or e-coli if the equipment is not properly cleaned and disinfected. Cross contamination is a very dangerous aspect of food processing, and steps to eliminate it through ultraviolet light are being taken worldwide.

References

• Infralight Technology; Applications of Ultraviolet Light
• Global Oneness; Ultraviolet Uses-UV
• The Electromagnetic Spectrum; Ultra Violet