A New Standard for Continuous Pathogen Reduction

Far-UV, commonly associated with 222 nm light, is a targeted germicidal technology designed to inactivate bacteria, viruses, and other airborne pathogens. Unlike traditional UV systems that are typically used in unoccupied spaces, properly designed Far-UV systems are intended for continuous use in occupied environments when installed and operated within applicable exposure limits. Research has shown strong airborne pathogen inactivation potential for 222 nm Far-UV.

Airborne
Pathogens

Far-UV
Exposure

Reduced
Microbial Load

Proven to Target Airborne Pathogens in Real Time

Far-UV works by damaging the DNA or RNA of microorganisms, preventing them from replicating. In livestock facilities, this helps address pathogens where they spread most easily: through shared air, high-density spaces, and common surfaces.

Air Disinfection

Far-UV light targets airborne pathogens as air circulates through the facility.

Surface Support

Far-UV can also help reduce microbial contamination on exposed surfaces.

Continuous Protection

Designed to operate throughout the day, supporting biosecurity without relying only on manual cleaning cycles.

Designed for Animals, Workers, and Continuous Operation

Far-UV's key advantage is its limited penetration depth. At 222 nm, the light is strongly absorbed in the outermost layers of skin and eye tear film, which is why it is being studied and deployed differently than traditional 254 nm germicidal UV. Safety still depends on proper fixture design, installation height, exposure modeling, and compliance with applicable exposure limits.

Non-invasive Technology

Limited penetration depth helps minimize risk to skin and eyes at safe exposure levels.

No Chemical Residue

Provides disinfection without chemicals, residues, or downtime.

Supports Occupied Spaces

Engineered for continuous use in occupied agricultural environments.

Engineered for Compliance

Designed to meet safety standards with proper installation and operation.

A 2025 meta-analysis found that 222 nm UVC showed comparable or potentially superior disinfection efficacy versus 254 nm UVC while causing less DNA damage to mammalian cells in the evaluated studies.

Read the meta-analysis →

Better Biosecurity
Starts with the Air

High-density livestock environments create ideal conditions for airborne pathogen movement. Far-UV gives producers an additional layer of protection that works continuously alongside ventilation, sanitation, vaccination, and standard operating procedures.

Enhanced
Biosecurity

Helps reduce airborne pathogens and lower biosecurity risk.

Healthier
Animals

Cleaner air can help support respiratory health and well-being.

Reduced
Pathogen Pressure

Continuous inactivation helps reduce overall pathogen load.

Operational
Efficiency

Supports productivity by promoting healthier environments.

Far-UV vs.
Traditional
Disinfection

Far-UV is designed to complement existing management practices with continuous, non-chemical pathogen reduction.

Method Best For Limitation
Manual Cleaning Visible soil and scheduled sanitation Intermittent protection
Chemicals Surface disinfection Labor, residue, downtime
Ventilation Dilution and air exchange Does not directly inactivate pathogens
Far-UV Continuous air and exposed-surface pathogen reduction Requires proper design and exposure control

Bring Continuous Far-UV Protection to Your Livestock Facility

Zoonotic Technology helps producers evaluate, design, and deploy Far-UV systems for real-world agricultural environments.