Shortwave excilamps as effective sources of radiation for inactivation of viruses and bacteria

The modern level of research on the inactivation of viruses, bacteria, and living cells under the influence of ultraviolet radiation from excilamps is presented. Special attention is paid to the inactivation of viruses, which is relevant in connection with the spread of coronavirus infections. It has been shown that UVC excilamps, emitting in the wavelength range of 200-240 nm, are an alternative to classical sources of ultraviolet radiation for inactivating viruses. They can be used alone or in combination with known sources (e.g., LEDs, low pressure mercury lamps). A forecast was made for the development of a new technology for disinfecting air and surfaces from infectious agents of various etiologies. (C) 2021 Optica Publishing Group