OSRAM granted approval to use UV light for virus elimination
- Shortwave UV‑C light is effective against viruses and bacteria
- Chinese authorities confirm effectiveness in the use against coronavirus
- More than 2,000 UV-C systems already installed in hospitals in Wuhan and Beijing
- Professional application for hospitals and other indoor public facilities
Following international approval, Osram can now supply UV‑C systems for disinfecting air and surfaces. Osram’s UV‑C HNS lamps work at a wavelength of 253.7 nm and obliterate viruses and bacteria with a reliability of 99.9 percent. The use in hospitals in Wuhan and Beijing, China, has also confirmed their effectiveness against coronavirus. In order to protect people from harmful UV‑C light, Osram’s products can be equipped with intelligent sensors. The AirZingTM product series allows trained staff in hospitals and other public facilities to disinfect large areas. In China, Osram has supplied as many as 10,000 products to nurseries.
“We are working hard to increase the production volume of our UV‑C disinfection systems because they can make an important contribution to the fight against coronavirus. Protecting our employees is a top priority and we thank them for their commitment day after day despite the difficult conditions,” said Wilhelm Nehring, CEO of the Digital business unit at Osram.
UV-C light inhibits germs
The nucleus of microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses contains thymine, a chemical element of the DNA/RNA. This element absorbs UV‑C at a specific wavelength of 253.7 nm and changes to such an extent that the cell is no longer able to multiply and survive. V‑UV light (185 nm) also kills microorganisms but causes ozone that is harmful to human health. UV‑C light is ozone-free and therefore safer.
UV‑C light is invisible and can lead to severe burns on human skin, which is why Osram has equipped its AirZing PRO with intelligent sensors. The infrared sensor detects people in the room and immediately turns off AirZing when someone unexpectedly enters the room to avoid injuries to eyes and skin. UV‑C light should only be used by trained staff.
Osram assembles the AirZing products in Kunshan, China, with a capacity of up to 35,000 units per month.
Please visit our website for further Information on our AirZing solution.
ABOUT OSRAM
OSRAM, based in Munich, is a leading global high-tech company with a history dating back more than 110 years. Primarily focused on semiconductor -based technologies, our products are used in highly diverse applications ranging from virtual reality to autonomous driving and from smartphones to smart and connected lighting solutions in buildings and cities. OSRAM uses the endless possibilities of light to improve the quality of life for individuals and communities. OSRAM’s innovations enable people all over the world not only to see better, but also to communicate, travel, work and live better. OSRAM has approximately 23,500 employees worldwide as of end of fiscal 2019 (September 30) and generated revenue of about 3.5 billion euros from continuing activities. The company is listed on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt and Munich (ISIN: DE000LED4000; WKN: LED 400; trading symbol: OSR). Additional information can be found at www.osram.com.