A recent study from CU Boulder has shown that ultraviolet (UV) light can reduce airborne allergens by 20% to 25% within just 30 minutes. Tess Eidem, a senior research associate in the Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, highlighted the potential of UV light as a safe treatment to inactivate allergens found indoors, such as dust mites and mold.
Read More
Allergens like proteins from cat saliva and dust mites can cause allergic reactions even after the source of irritation is removed, as these proteins can linger in the environment. Standard methods for reducing allergens, such as vacuuming and using air filters, often require consistent maintenance and may not be wholly effective over time.
Eidem and her colleagues, Mark Hernandez and Kristin Rugh, aimed to alter the proteins’ structure to prevent the immune system from recognizing them. They conducted their research using 222-nanometer wavelength UV light, considered safe for occupied spaces, unlike the more harmful 254-nanometer UV light commonly used for disinfection.
In their experiments, the team introduced airborne allergens into a controlled chamber and applied UV light. They found significant reductions in immunorecognition of the proteins, with the cat allergen Fel d 1 decreasing by 61% after 40 minutes of exposure.
Eidem noted that UV222 lights are already available for industrial uses, but she envisions portable versions that could help people in environments with allergens, such as homes with pets. The Centers for Disease Control states that one in three individuals in the U.S. has allergies, and Eidem's work aims to provide solutions that could alleviate their suffering and possibly prevent severe asthma attacks.