Ultraviolet Torches Give Law Enforcement Versatility
There are a number of torches available to law enforcement and crime scene officers that incorporate multiple bulb colors into the design. Different colored LED bulbs serve different functions, specifically as they relate to night vision (read “Color Me Informed” for more). One of the most important light functions may be the ultraviolet light.
Ultraviolet light, like the type we get from the sun, has shorter wavelengths than visible light. We can see true ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet light sources emit longer wave ultraviolet radiation resulting in very little visible light characterized by a deep purple/blue color emission.
An ultraviolet beam can be used to detect counterfeit money or pieces of art, find blood protein trails at a crime scene and identify different minerals present in soil samples or on evidence. Pilots, medical personnel, police officers, collectors and the military all find ultraviolet light sources necessary to thoroughly conduct their business.
The average person can benefit from an ultraviolet flashlight or torch as well. These lights can be used by fisherman to recharge luminescent fishing lures. Outdoorsmen can use them to recharge watch faces and detect blood paths while trailing deer.
Safety is important with these light sources. You do not want to shine an ultraviolet light directly into your eyes of the eyes of others as it may cause some damage depending on the wavelength range of the light (measured in nanometers).
Photo from dmcleish.com of Nichia 2 Watt UV LED
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