A recent MIT study has uncovered that new 222-nanometer UV light sources, aimed at minimizing airborne pathogens, might be safer than traditional UV sources but could still generate harmful indoor compounds. This information was provided by José-Luis Olivares of MIT, and iStock.
These lights are effective against pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, but could lead to unwanted chemical reactions, necessitating their use with adequate ventilation. Numerous strategies, such as masking and isolation, have been adopted to curb disease transmission like COVID-19 and influenza. Another approach is lowering airborne pathogen levels via filtration or germicidal ultraviolet light. Traditional UV sources pose risks to eyes and skin, but newer 222-nanometer wavelength sources are deemed safer.
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Dangers Associated with UV Light Utilization
MIT’s latest findings indicate that these UV lights might create harmful substances in indoor environments. The research suggests that these lights should not be entirely avoided but used correctly with proper strength and ventilation.
This study was published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology by Victoria Barber (former MIT postdoc), Matthew Goss (doctoral student), Professor Jesse Kroll, and others from MIT, Aerodyne Research, and Harvard University.
Kroll’s team, typically focused on outdoor air pollution, shifted to indoor air quality during the pandemic. Indoor air typically experiences less photochemical reactivity compared to outdoor air. However, indoor air purification devices using chemicals or UV light could induce a series of oxidation reactions indoors.
Initially, UV light forms ozone from oxygen, a health hazard. This ozone can further react, producing OH radicals, potent oxidizers. Barber, now an assistant professor at UCLA, explains that volatile organic compounds react with these oxidizers, forming more harmful oxidized compounds and secondary organic aerosols.
Indoor Air Quality Concerns with UV Light
These compounds’ formation is worrisome indoors due to prolonged exposure and potential accumulation due to poor ventilation.
The research team, experienced in outdoor air processes, adapted their methods to directly observe these pollution-forming processes indoors. They conducted experiments by exposing clean air to UV light and then introducing individual organic compounds to observe the resultant chemical effects. Although more research is needed for real-world applications, the formation of secondary products was evident.
Recommendations on UV Technology and Ventilation
KrCl excimer lamps, which use these new UV wavelengths, are still rare and costly, found mostly in hospitals, restaurants, or commercial settings. Contrary to some beliefs, these lights should not replace but complement ventilation, as the study indicates.
Kroll suggests a balanced approach, maximizing pathogen deactivation benefits while minimizing pollutant formation through adequate ventilation.
Implications for Future Research
The findings are based on controlled laboratory tests with air contained in a Teflon bag. Barber notes that while these tests provide insights into possible indoor chemistry, they might not directly mirror real indoor environments.
Goss mentions that this study helped validate a simple model relevant to actual indoor spaces, estimating potential effects in real indoor environments. The next phase involves real-world indoor measurements.
Kroll emphasizes the need for further study to understand the full implications in real indoor settings.
Dustin Poppendieck, a National Institute for Standards and Technology research scientist not involved in the study, highlights the importance of thoroughly assessing these devices’ health impacts before widespread reliance, especially in preparation for future pandemics.
The study was supported by the National Science Foundation, the Harvard Global Institute, and an NIEHS Toxicology Training Grant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UV Light Indoor Pollution
What Does the MIT Study Say About UV Lights and Indoor Air Quality?
The MIT study reveals that while newer UV lights at 222 nanometers are effective against pathogens like SARS-CoV-2, they can produce harmful compounds in indoor environments. It emphasizes the importance of using these lights with correct strength and adequate ventilation to minimize potential health risks.
Are Newer UV Lights Completely Safe for Indoor Use?
While newer UV lights are safer than traditional UV sources, the MIT research indicates they are not entirely risk-free. They can lead to the formation of harmful compounds indoors, so it’s essential to use them properly with effective ventilation.
What Are the Potential Hazards of Using UV Lights Indoors?
The potential hazards include the formation of ozone and other harmful oxidized compounds, like OH radicals, when UV lights interact with organic compounds present indoors. These can be detrimental to health, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.
How Should UV Lights Be Used Indoors According to the Study?
The study suggests that UV lights should be used at the correct strength and always in conjunction with adequate ventilation. This helps to mitigate the formation of harmful indoor air pollutants.
What Does the Study Suggest for Future Research and Application of UV Lights?
The study highlights the need for further research in real-world indoor environments to fully understand the implications of using UV lights. It also suggests balancing the benefits of pathogen deactivation with the risks of pollutant formation.
More about UV Light Indoor Pollution
- MIT News on UV Light Study
- Environmental Science & Technology Journal Article
- Indoor Air Quality and UV Light Research
- Health Implications of Germicidal UV Lights
- Understanding UV Light Pollution in Indoor Spaces
4 comments
wow, so its not just about killing viruses? those UV lights can be tricky. better be careful with them in my yoga studio.
really interesting study, didn’t know UV lights could cause these issues, good to know about the ventilation part.
Reading about the potential hazards of UV lights is kinda scary… Thought they were totally safe. Thanks for sharing this!
I always thought UV was the perfect solution for air purification. This opens up a whole new perspective, kudos to MIT for the research.