“Many growers want to reuse their drain water but are concerned about the risk of disease transmission – and rightly so,” says Ruben Oosterwijk, water specialist at Priva. “Water is a carrier for viruses, bacteria, and fungi. UV-C disinfection is an effective way to address these pathogens.”
The power of UV-C in water treatment
UV-C technology uses high-energy ultraviolet radiation to neutralize microorganisms in water. This means that bacteria, fungi, and viruses are inactivated without the use of chemicals. In addition to its broad-spectrum effectiveness against pathogens, UV-C has been shown to be effective against specific plant viruses, such as Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV).
Preventing the spread of ToBRFV through water
ToBRFV is a serious global threat to tomato cultivation. This persistent virus is highly contagious and can spread easily through hands, clothing, tools, or mobile phones. What is less widely known is that contaminated irrigation water can also be a source of infection.
A research trial conducted by Normec Groen Agro Control shows that UV-C disinfection is an effective method to help prevent the spread of ToBRFV through recirculated drain water.
"The recommended standard dose of UV-C is 250 mJ/cm², which has also been shown to be effective against other plant pathogens," explains Ruben. “Our Vialux M-Line UV-C disinfection unit not only meets this standard but is also backed by over 25 years of proven experience in drain water disinfection.”
Why UV-C Is a valuable solution for growers
An increasing number of growers are discovering the benefits of UV-C disinfection. Not only does it eliminate harmful microorganisms, but it also offers other benefits:
- Sustainable water use – Disinfected water can be safely reused, reducing the need for fresh water and significantly lowering water and fertilizer costs.
- Easy integration – UV-C systems can be easily integrated into existing irrigation systems without major modifications, making the technology highly accessible.
- Compliance with environmental regulations – In many regions, water treatment before discharge is mandatory. UV-C allows growers to meet these requirements without using additional chemicals, contributing to more sustainable horticultural practices.
"Investing in UV-C is investing in a sustainable future," concludes Ruben. "Not only do you save on water and fertilizer, but you also reduce the risk of disease and improve crop quality. With a solution like the Priva Vialux-Line, growers can reliably disinfect and reuse their water with ease".
