UV-C Light at 280 nm
Robust and high-performance disinfection technology
Radiation at 280 nm within the UV-C spectral range is among the most technically stable and high-performing wavelengths used in modern UV disinfection systems. Although the absorption maximum of DNA and RNA lies closer to approximately 260–265 nm, 280 nm also demonstrates very high microbiological effectiveness.
A key advantage of this wavelength lies in the technical efficiency of modern UV-C LEDs: systems emitting around 280 nm often achieve higher optical output power, better efficiency, and longer service life than shorter-wavelength UV-C LEDs.
Typical application areas include food processing, packaging lines, medical device sterilization, and water disinfection.
As a result, 280 nm represents a particularly attractive compromise between:
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high disinfection effectiveness
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technical robustness
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long operating life
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scalable system integration
These properties make 280 nm UV-C a preferred wavelength for many industrial applications, especially where continuous operation, high throughput, and compact designs are required.
Like other UV-C wavelengths, 280 nm primarily acts through the photochemical damage of the genetic material of microorganisms. In this process, nucleic acids absorb UV radiation, leading to structural changes in DNA.
Since this process is purely physical, it results in:
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no chemical residues
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no development of resistance
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no alteration of water or material properties
VIRUCIDAL EFFECT
Wavelength and optical power are decisive
The wavelength of deep UV typically lies in the range of approximately 200–280 nm (UV-C). A wavelength of 265 nm is particularly effective, as it coincides with the absorption maximum of DNA/RNA.
In this range, UV light causes:
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Damage to DNA/RNA
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Disruption of replication
If the wavelength lies outside this optimal range (e.g., >300 nm), the inactivation effect decreases significantly.
The optical output power of the LED determines how much UV energy is emitted.
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Measured in milliwatts (mW) or as irradiance (mW/cm²) on a surface
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Higher power produces greater irradiance and faster inactivation of bacteria, viruses, or spores
The actual effectiveness therefore depends on wavelength, LED power, and exposure time.
Case Study
UV-C LED systems provide an effective way to additionally disinfect high-traffic spaces such as medical practices alongside conventional sterilization methods. Using a simulation, it is demonstrated how four linear high-power modules reach surfaces in a typical treatment room and what role room geometry, furniture, and irradiation times play.
Discover how targeted UV-C irradiation between appointments or overnight can contribute to improved hygienic safety.
TYPICAL APPLICATION
Food Processing
In the food industry, UV-C plays an important role in reducing microbial loads on surfaces and production lines. Thanks to its robust technology, UV-C LED modules can be directly integrated without interrupting production flow. The technology supports hygiene concepts.
280 nm is particularly suitable for:
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conveyor belt disinfection
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disinfection of production surfaces
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treatment of processing machinery
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hygienic protection of product-contact surfaces
Advantages in the food industry:
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no chemical residues on food
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rapid effect within fractions of a second
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easy integration into existing systems
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reduced downtime for cleaning
TYPICAL APPLICATION
Packaging and Filling Systems
In automated packaging lines, reliable sterilization of packaging materials is essential for product shelf life. The short irradiation time enables inline disinfection during the packaging process. The use of UV-C reduces the risk of microbial contamination and extends product shelf life without additional preservatives.
280 nm UV-C is commonly used for:
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disinfection of bottles and containers
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treatment of packaging films
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sterilization of caps and lids
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hygienization of filling systems
Particularly relevant in industries such as:
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beverage industry
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dairy products
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ready meals
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pharmaceutical packaging
TYPICAL APPLICATION
Medical Device Sterilization
In medical and laboratory environments, UV-C radiation is used to disinfect devices, tools, and work surfaces.
Typical applications:
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disinfection of medical instruments
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sterilization of laboratory equipment
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decontamination of diagnostic systems
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treatment of surfaces in clinical environments
Especially in automated devices, 280 nm UV-C can contribute to continuous microbiological control.
Such solutions are often used in environments with strict hygiene requirements, for example in facilities following guidelines from the World Health Organization or national health authorities.
TYPICAL APPLICATION
Industrial Water Disinfection
UV-C systems at 280 nm are widely used for microbiological control of process and operational water. The combination of high LED power and long lifetime enables robust systems with stable disinfection performance.
Many modern systems are based on UV disinfection technologies in which UV-C LED modules are directly integrated into water pipelines.
This wavelength is particularly suitable for applications with:
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medium flow rates
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continuous operation
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industrial plant environments
Typical applications include:
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process water in food production
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cooling water in industrial plants
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water in beverage and brewing processes
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production water in pharmaceutical and chemical plants
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water treatment in technical systems
Advantages over chemical processes:
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no dosing of disinfectants
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no formation of by-products
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no storage of hazardous chemicals
Advantages of 280 nm UV-C LEDs
High technological maturity
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often better LED efficiency than shorter wavelengths
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higher optical output per module
Long service life
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robust LED technology
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reduced maintenance effort
Excellent integration capability
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suitable for compact devices
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ideal for OEM solutions
Wide range of applications
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water
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surfaces
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packaging systems
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medical devices
UV LED luminaire VIOLET
Professional UV-C specialty luminaire with 280 nm wavelength
The VIOLET series offers high-performance UV-C LED technology for professional applications – with wavelengths of 280 nm available in four sizes.
It features a robust anodized aluminum profile with excellent heat dissipation, LEDiL specialty optics made from UV-resistant materials, and control LEDs for safe operation at 30 V constant voltage. It is supplied ready for connection with a 10 m cable.
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CONTACT
Enquire about your project!
Do not hesitate to contact our LED module expert.
Daniel Görike – Key Account Manager –
Tel. +49 7471 96014 – 73
E-Mail dg@leds.de
CONTACT
Enquire about your project!
Do not hesitate to contact our UV-LED expert.
Paul Sparenborg – Sales Manager –
Tel. +49 7471 96014 – 77
E-Mail ps@leds.de