UVC devices have been used for successful disinfection of air and surfaces in multiple industries, more specifically the healthcare industry. However, with the use of these devices it has been often noticed that there is a residual odor after disinfection, otherwise known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This odor has been described as a sulfuric smell similar to rotten eggs, garlic, or burning hair. A recent study by Dr. Normand Brais about residual odors from UVC disinfection has been published showing information on how UV irradiation of keratin and cysteine in dust particles from the air emit chemical byproducts of thiol and mercaptan molecules, which contain a significant amount of sulfur.
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