What is the difference between Infrared, UV, and E-beam curing?

Infrared, ultraviolet, and electron beams are three very different types of radiation used in various fields.

Here are their main differences:

• Infrared (IR): An electromagnetic wave (like visible light), with a wavelength longer than that of visible light (approximately 700 nm to 1 mm).

• Ultraviolet (UV): An electromagnetic wave, with a wavelength shorter than that of visible light (approximately 10 nm to 400 nm).

• Electron beams: A stream of charged particles (electrons). This is not an electromagnetic wave, unlike the first two types of radiation.

Interaction with matter and industrial uses:

• Infrared (IR): Primarily absorbed as heat (molecular vibrations). Infrared radiation is used to heat quickly (or/and on specific parts): paint and varnish curing, water drying, food browning and pasteurization.

• Ultraviolet (UV): Can ionize atoms/molecules, causing photo-chemical reactions. Ultraviolet radiation is mainly used for varnishes polymerization and films decontamination.

• Electron beams: Interact strongly with matter, can ionize, heat, or even penetrate materials. Electron beams can be used for paint curing (instantaneously and without heating effect), coatings curing with special improvements, food films and food decontamination.