Blocking violet light leakage in UV lights

In summary, a handheld UV mercury vapor lamp leaks violet light around the visible wavelengths. It is possible to block this light with a colored transparent sheet, but this may cost more money than the lamp. There are filters that block a very narrow range of visible wavelengths, but they are expensive and quite special.
  • #1
Garlic
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Hello,
I have a handheld UV mercury vapor lamp, which, when working, leaks some visible light around violet wavelengths.
My question is whether it is possible to block violet light but let the UV light using some kind of colored transparent sheets.
Thank you..
 
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  • #2
I would imagine that the present filter that's on the lamp was chosen on the grounds of cost. It will be doing the job according to the spec of the lamp. I have a feeling that you would need a different kind of filter (interference filter) that would have a sharper cut off between visible and UV. That could cost you more money.
I googled UV bandpass filters and found a number of hits. It all looked pretty expensive stuff. :frown:
 
  • #3
sophiecentaur said:
I would imagine that the present filter that's on the lamp was chosen on the grounds of cost. It will be doing the job according to the spec of the lamp. I have a feeling that you would need a different kind of filter (interference filter) that would have a sharper cut off between visible and UV. That could cost you more money.
I googled UV bandpass filters and found a number of hits. It all looked pretty expensive stuff. :frown:

Oh.. :frown:
Why isn't it easy to find a such material? Ultraviolet is just another color that we can't see. I can block a wavelength of light just by putting a cheap colored transparent sheet, why can't this be the case when the UV light is on topic?
 
  • #4
You don't block a wavelength of light but just attenuate some wide bands of wavelengths more than other bands.
If you look at the spectrum of light coming through a colored piece of red (for example) plastic or other cheap colored sheet, you will see that you still have non-zero intensity for yellow and orange and maybe even green and blue.
Same thing is done by your filter, probably.

Filters that can block a very narrow range in visible are also very special and quite expensive.
 
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  • #5
Also it's a bit of supply and demand. There are hundreds of photographic filters which pass or block visible wavelengths. Dichroic filters can be very sharp and only mildly expensive. What you have is possibly a rare requirement. Quite doable, I'm sure but on a bespoke basis. The sites all look a bit specialist. I got all enthusiastic when I found "UV filters" but the camera filters all block it.
 
  • #6
It may call for some inventive search terms and perhaps somewhere other than google?
 
  • #7
I found the
Baader Ultraviolet Venus Filter
which may do what you want. It's for UV photography. $400 though, for a 2" circular (camera type) mount.
 
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  • #8
I was scrolling through my older posts, when I realized that I have left your effort unthanked.. I am sorry, and thank you. :smile:
 
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FAQ: Blocking violet light leakage in UV lights

What is violet light leakage in UV lights?

Violet light leakage in UV lights refers to the unintentional emission of violet light from a UV light source. This can be a problem in certain applications where only UV light is desired.

Why is it important to block violet light leakage in UV lights?

Blocking violet light leakage in UV lights is important for several reasons. Firstly, violet light can interfere with certain scientific experiments and measurements that require only UV light. Additionally, violet light can be harmful to the eyes and skin, so blocking it can help prevent potential health risks.

How can violet light leakage be blocked in UV lights?

There are various ways to block violet light leakage in UV lights. One method is to use filters, such as colored glass or plastic, that absorb violet light. Another option is to use coatings or films that reflect or absorb violet light. It is also possible to adjust the settings or components of the UV light source itself to minimize violet light leakage.

Are there any downsides to blocking violet light in UV lights?

While blocking violet light leakage in UV lights can have many benefits, there are also potential downsides to consider. Some methods of blocking violet light may also block out useful UV light wavelengths, affecting the overall performance of the UV light source. Additionally, blocking violet light may increase the cost and complexity of the UV light system.

What are some common applications where blocking violet light leakage in UV lights is necessary?

Blocking violet light leakage in UV lights is often necessary in applications such as fluorescence microscopy, UV curing, and UV sterilization. In these cases, only specific wavelengths of UV light are needed for the desired results, and any leakage of violet light can interfere with the process or pose health risks.

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