Why do ceramic heat emitters produce UV radiation?

In summary, according to forums on tortoises and other reptiles, ceramic heat emitters emit UV radiation at temperatures around 200 degrees. However, at this temperature, the amount of UV radiation is effectively zero and the heater will not produce any significant or harmful levels of UV. The source of the radiation is likely a combination of blackbody and thermal radiation, though it may not be visible to the human eye.
  • #1
acesuv
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this might be kind of a weird question lol but according to forums on tortoises and other reptiles, ceramic heat emitters (a piece of ceramic heated to about 200 degrees id say) actually emit a UV radiation...

is this true? where does the radiation come from? is it black body radiation? thermal radiation? ??!
 
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  • #2
acesuv said:
this might be kind of a weird question lol but according to forums on tortoises and other reptiles, ceramic heat emitters (a piece of ceramic heated to about 200 degrees id say) actually emit a UV radiation...

is this true? where does the radiation come from? is it black body radiation? thermal radiation? ??!
Not sure if we can make a distinction between blackbody and thermal radiation, but this is indeed the source of the radiation. Do you see the ceramic heater glow with visible light? Any emission in the UV range will be weaker than emission in the visible range. I wouldn't worry about such a heater producing any significant or harmful UV.
 
  • #3
acesuv said:
this might be kind of a weird question lol but according to forums on tortoises and other reptiles, ceramic heat emitters (a piece of ceramic heated to about 200 degrees id say) actually emit a UV radiation...

(Underlining mine)

At 200 degrees the amount of UV radiation emitted from the ceramic should be effectively zero. Heck, you don't get appreciable visible light until 800-900 degrees (F).
 
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1. Why do ceramic heat emitters produce UV radiation?

Ceramic heat emitters produce UV radiation as a byproduct of their heating process. The ceramic material, usually made of aluminum oxide, is heated to high temperatures, causing it to emit infrared radiation and a small amount of UV radiation.

2. Is the UV radiation produced by ceramic heat emitters harmful?

The UV radiation produced by ceramic heat emitters is considered to be low intensity and is not harmful to humans or animals. However, it is recommended to use caution and avoid direct exposure to the UV rays for extended periods of time.

3. How does the UV radiation from ceramic heat emitters affect reptiles?

Reptiles require UV radiation for proper calcium metabolism and overall health. The low levels of UV radiation emitted by ceramic heat emitters can help provide a natural and balanced UV light source for reptiles in captivity.

4. Can ceramic heat emitters be used as a sole source of UV lighting for reptiles?

No, ceramic heat emitters should not be used as the sole source of UV lighting for reptiles. While they do emit UV radiation, it is not enough to meet the specific UV requirements of most reptiles. It is recommended to also provide UVB bulbs or natural sunlight for reptiles in captivity.

5. Do all ceramic heat emitters produce UV radiation?

No, not all ceramic heat emitters produce UV radiation. Only those made with a ceramic material that can withstand high temperatures will produce UV radiation as a byproduct of the heating process. It is important to check the product specifications or consult with a reptile expert to determine if a specific ceramic heat emitter will emit UV radiation.

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