<unk>  <unk>  is a sterilization method that uses<unk>  (UV) light at sufficiently short wavelength to break down micro-organisms. It is used in a variety of applications, such as food, air and water purification. UV has been a known mutagen at the cellular level for more than 100 years. The 1903 Nobel Prize for Medicine was awarded to Niels Finsen for his use of UV against tuberculosis.<unk>  utilises the short wavelength of UV that is harmful to forms of life at the micro-organic level. It is effective in destroying the nucleic acids in these organisms so that their DNA is disrupted by the UV radiation, which is a form of ionising radiation. This removes their reproductive capabilities and/or kills them.
The wavelength of UV that causes this effect is rare on Earth as its atmosphere blocks it. Using a<unk>  device in certain environments like circulating air or water systems creates a deadly effect on micro-organisms such as pathogens, viruses and molds that are in these environments. Coupled with a filtration system,<unk>  can remove harmful micro-organisms from these environments.
The application of<unk>  to sterilization has been an accepted practice since the mid-20th century. It has been used primarily in medical sanitation and sterile work facilities. Increasingly it was employed to sterilize drinking and wastewater, as the holding facilities were enclosed and could be circulated to ensure a higher exposure to the UV. In recent years<unk>  has found renewed application in air sanitization.
Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation
Particle radiation
Cytoluminescent therapy
Irradiation
Ionizing radiation
Induction heating
Freeze drying
Electron therapy