UVCBereich

UVCBereich is the German designation for the ultraviolet‑C portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. It encompasses wavelengths between 100 nm and 280 nm, with the most biologically relevant band lying from about 200 nm to 280 nm. In atmospheric science, the UVCBereich is largely absorbed by the Earth’s ozone layer and by atmospheric oxygen, preventing most of it from reaching the surface. Consequently, natural UVC exposure at ground level is negligible, and the body is not routinely exposed to this high‑energy radiation.

In laboratory and industrial settings, UVC light is produced by mercury vapour lamps and more recently by high‑pressure mercury‑free lamps and excimer lasers. UVC light is capable of breaking chemical bonds and disrupting DNA base pairs, which makes it an effective sterilisation agent. Microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and spores, are inactivated when their genetic material is damaged by UVC photons. As such, the UVCBereich is widely applied in water purification, wastewater treatment, air and surface disinfection, and in medical equipment sterilisation.

The high photon energy of the UVCBereich also poses significant safety risks. Direct exposure can cause erythema (sunburn), corneal damage (photokeratitis), and long‑term eye and skin lesions. Protective eyewear and adequate shielding are mandatory in areas where UVC radiation is used. Ongoing research investigates low‑intensity UVC applications, such as the recently approved 222 nm far‑UVC, which may provide effective germicidal action while reducing human tissue absorption. In all contexts, regulatory limits on UVC emissions are established by national and international bodies to safeguard human health while permitting its beneficial uses.