The role of ultraviolet light in air cleaning: A mini review on microbial and pollution control

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of indoor air quality (IAQ) has gained significant attention, as SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious agents can spread through inhalable aerosols. Air-cleaning devices that combine filtration with pollutant-targeted treatments offer a promising approach to improving IAQ. Yet, relatively few filtration systems incorporating UV (Ultraviolet) technology have undergone rigorous performance testing, and publicly available data on their effectiveness, including comparable UV doses, remain limited. In this study, we enhanced an existing particulate matter (PM) filtration prototype by integrating germicidal UV-C light to expand its disinfection capability. This mini review explores the application of ultraviolet (UV) light as amethod to improve indoor air quality by reducing airborne bacteria, viruses, and pollutants. UV disinfection is shown to be effective in inactivating microorganisms while also contributing to the reduction of particulate pollution, thereby supporting healthier indoor environments. Importantly, the study emphasizes that UV technologies achieve the greatest impact when integrated with other engineering controls, such as filtration and ventilation, offering a comprehensive strategy for protecting human health.