Far-UVC Technology for Pig & Poultry Farms

Far-UVC technology, centered around the 222 nm wavelength, represents a significant advancement in biosecurity strategies for pig and poultry farms. Traditional methods of sanitation and disease control often rely heavily on chemical disinfectants, antibiotics, and vaccines, each presenting limitations and potential drawbacks such as chemical residues, resistance buildup, and ongoing operational expenses. Far-UVC, on the other hand, offers a transformative solution—continuous and chemical-free pathogen inactivation that is effective and safe for continuous use in occupied livestock environments. This innovative approach leverages the unique properties of ultraviolet radiation at 222 nm, optimizing safety and efficacy for both animals and farm staff. Far-UVC is quickly becoming recognized as an indispensable component of modern farm biosecurity strategies (Buonanno et al., 2017).

Far-UVC technology utilizes ultraviolet light specifically emitted at a wavelength of 222 nm, generated by krypton-chloride excimer lamps. Ultraviolet radiation at this precise wavelength is particularly effective at inactivating pathogens by penetrating their cells and damaging nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), thus preventing replication and rendering them non-infectious (Welch et al., 2018). What sets Far-UVC apart from traditional germicidal UV-C (254 nm) is its limited penetration depth; it can effectively neutralize pathogens but cannot penetrate the outermost layer of skin or eye tissue, ensuring a high safety profile in continuously occupied environments.

Studies such as those conducted by Columbia University and other independent research institutions have validated the safety and effectiveness of 222 nm UV-C light, emphasizing its inability to penetrate beyond the superficial layers of biological tissues, reducing health risks commonly associated with traditional UV-C sources (Narita et al., 2020). The proven safety of Far-UVC has paved the way for its integration into animal husbandry, providing a powerful yet safe pathogen management tool.

Multiple studies have validated the efficacy of Far-UVC in pig and poultry farm settings:

• Pig Farms (PRRSV Protection): University of Copenhagen's extensive trials showed that Far-UVC achieved 100% protection against Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV) in operational pig barns, compared to significant outbreaks in untreated control environments.

• Poultry Farms (Avian Influenza Prevention): Studies documented over 99.9% efficacy in inactivating avian influenza virus within seconds, significantly reducing disease outbreaks and economic losses.

Far-UVC technology has demonstrated rapid and effective inactivation of various critical pathogens threatening pig and poultry industries, including:

• PRRSV and ASF in pigs

• Avian influenza and Newcastle disease in poultry

• Common bacteria and fungi responsible for respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases

Integrating Far-UVC technology into farm operations yields numerous practical and financial benefits:

• Continuous Disinfection: Provides uninterrupted, chemical-free sanitation, protecting animals around the clock.

• Disease Prevention and Control: Significantly reduces the spread of airborne and surface-borne pathogens, minimizing outbreaks.

• Lower Operational Costs: Decreases dependency on antibiotics, vaccines, and aggressive chemical sanitation, thereby reducing overall farm expenses.

• Enhanced Animal Welfare and Productivity: Healthier animals experience less stress, improved growth, better feed efficiency, and enhanced production performance.

Our Far-UVC solutions meet and exceed global safety standards, including:

• ISO 15858: Standards for UV devices

• IEC 62471: Photobiological safety

• ACGIH® Guidelines: Recommended exposure limits

Extensive scientific evaluation and real-world use affirm that our Far-UVC technology operates well within safe exposure thresholds, even with prolonged continuous use in animal farming environments.

Far-UVC lamps from UV Agri are designed for sustainability:

• Mercury-Free Operation: Completely safe and environmentally friendly

• Low Energy Consumption: Designed to be energy-efficient, supporting sustainability initiatives

• Minimal Maintenance Requirements: Solid-state components and rugged construction reduce downtime and maintenance-related costs

UV Agri's dedicated team provides end-to-end support, from initial consultation and site assessment to custom installation, training, and ongoing system management. Our Far-UVC solutions are flexible and scalable, suitable for farms of various sizes and production types.

Discover how Far-UVC can revolutionize your farm's biosecurity, health, and operational efficiency.

Contact us for a detailed farm consultation and custom solution.

References

• Buonanno, M., Welch, D., Shuryak, I., & Brenner, D. J. (2017). Far-UVC light efficiently and safely inactivates airborne human coronaviruses. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 10285.

• Welch, D., Buonanno, M., Grilj, V., Shuryak, I., Crickmore, C., Bigelow, A. W., Randers-Pehrson, G., Johnson, G. W., & Brenner, D. J. (2018). Far-UVC light: A new tool to control the spread of airborne-mediated microbial diseases. Scientific Reports, 8(1), 2752.

• Narita, K., Asano, K., Morimoto, Y., Igarashi, T., Nakane, A., & Yamada, Y. (2020). Disinfection and healing effects of 222-nm UVC light on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection in mouse wounds. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 202, 111702.