Irradiation

Irradiation is the process by which an object is exposed to radiation. The exposure can originate from various sources, including natural sources and artificial sources. The term irradiation usually excludes the exposure to non-ionizing radiation, such as infrared, visible light, microwaves from cellular phones or electromagnetic waves emitted by radio and TV receivers and power supplies.

Types of Irradiation

There are several types of irradiation, including Ultraviolet irradiation, Food irradiation, and Blood irradiation.

Ultraviolet Irradiation

Ultraviolet irradiation is a method of disinfection that uses short-wavelength ultraviolet (UV-C) light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, leaving them unable to perform vital cellular functions.

Food Irradiation

Food irradiation is the process of exposing food and food packaging to ionizing radiation, such as from gamma rays, x-rays, or electron beams, without direct contact to the food product.

Blood Irradiation

Blood irradiation is a process that irradiates blood products to prevent graft versus host disease (GVHD).

Uses of Irradiation

Irradiation is used in a variety of settings and for different purposes. It is used in medicine for radiation therapy, in the sterilization of medical equipment, in the improvement of food safety and shelf life, and in the creation of industrial products.

Safety and Regulation

The safety and regulation of irradiation is overseen by several international bodies, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

See Also

• Radiation therapy
• Food safety
• Sterilization (microbiology)

References

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