The sterilization principle of xenon light is mainly based on the destructive effect of the high-intensity broad-spectrum light (especially ultraviolet rays and high-energy visible light) released by xenon lamps on microorganisms. Rapid sterilization is achieved through physical means, which can be elaborated in detail from the following aspects:
I. Light Characteristics and Sterilization Core of Xenon Lamps
Xenon lamps are high-pressure gas discharge lamps. When in operation, they generate a strong composite spectrum through the ionization of xenon gas, which includes ultraviolet (UV) rays, visible light, and a small amount of infrared rays. Among them, ultraviolet rays (especially the UVC band) and high-energy visible light play the main role in sterilization.
UVC ultraviolet rays (wavelength 200-280nm): It has an extremely strong bactericidal ability, capable of penetrating the cell membranes and nuclei of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc.), destroying the molecular structure of their DNA or RNA, causing the microorganisms to be unable to reproduce and die (for example, destroying the pyrimidine dimer in bacterial DNA to prevent the replication of their genetic material).
High-energy visible light (such as blue light and ultraviolet light, with wavelengths of 280-400nm): Although its bactericidal efficiency is lower than that of UVC, it can destroy the cell membranes and enzyme systems of microorganisms through oxidation, assisting in enhancing the bactericidal effect. It is particularly supplementary to certain microorganisms that have a certain resistance to ultraviolet rays (such as some fungal spores).
Ii. Synergistic Effects in the Sterilization Process
The sterilization of xenon pass bo is not the effect of a single light, but a synergistic effect combining light intensity, irradiation time, and environmental airtightness:
High-intensity irradiation: Xenon lamps have high instantaneous brightness and can release a large amount of energy in a short time, creating a high-intensity irradiation environment inside the pass bo and quickly killing microorganisms on the surface of objects (compared with traditional ultraviolet lamps, xenon lamps have a wider spectrum, a wider sterilization range, and do not require preheating when started).
Enhancement of confined space: The sealed structure of the pass box (achieved through sealing strips) can reduce light leakage, ensure high irradiance in the cavity, and prevent external contaminants from entering, guaranteeing that the sterilization process is not disturbed.
Timed control: The equipment is usually equipped with a timed function. The irradiation time (generally 5 to 30 minutes) is set according to the type of item and cleanliness requirements to ensure that microorganisms are fully inactivated and meet the specified cleanliness standards.
Iii. Differences from Other Sterilization Methods
Compared with traditional ultraviolet lamps (only in the UVC band) and ozone disinfection methods, the advantages of xenon light sterilization lie in:
It has a wider spectral range and can simultaneously act on different types of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, molds, etc.).
No ozone residue (avoiding oxidative damage to the human body and items);
The lamp tube has a long lifespan (usually 2,000 to 3,000 hours) and starts up quickly, making it suitable for frequent usage scenarios.
Summary
The core sterilization principle of the xenon pass box is to utilize the UVC ultraviolet rays and high-energy visible light released by xenon lamps to inactivate microorganisms by destroying their genetic material and cell structure. At the same time, it ensures the sterilization effect through a closed space and timed control. It is an efficient device for preventing cross-contamination during the transfer of items in a clean environment. In daily maintenance, it is necessary to focus on ensuring the normal light emission of xenon lamps and the sealing performance of the equipment to maintain its sterilization efficiency.
