Can a Box Block UVC Light for Bacteria-Killing Experiment?

[SciDude85]

Hello,

I am doing an experiment where I am using a UVC light (254 nm) to kill bacteria for a science fair project. Will putting the light bulb in a card board box be enough to make sure no light escapes? Should I use a reflective material on the inside of a box, like a foil?

Thanks!

 

[Bystander]

am doing an experiment where I am using a UVC light (254 nm) to kill bacteria for a science fair project. Will putting the light bulb in a card board box be enough to make sure no light escapes? Should I use a reflective material on the inside of a box, like a foil?

How intense a source? A few watts? A few kilowatts? You say "science fair" which implies the first, in which case the answer to your first question is "yes" and to the second "not necessary."

BTW, welcome to PF.