UV light (ultraviolet radiation) is part of the electromagnetic spectrum with a shorter wavelength than visible light. It is invisible to the human eye but causes fluorescence, meaning that certain materials glow when exposed to UV light, allowing their identification and inspection. UV light is therefore invisible radiation with practical use for police, military, and security forces. Thanks to its ability to trigger fluorescence, it enables fast verification of documents, banknotes, and hidden markings. Modern UV diodes differ from standard LEDs in that they do not illuminate the surroundings but reveal hidden information. Combined flashlights with white and UV light are a universal solution that saves space and increases work efficiency. Fenix flashlights with UV function as well as classic models are in stock in our e-shop.

Example of banknote authenticity verification under UV light

How UV light is used by police and the military

UV light is a standard tool for security forces because it reveals elements that are hidden in visible light:

• Document and banknote inspection – verification of security features, watermarks, and fluorescent fibers.
• Forensic use – detection of biological traces, marking substances, and tracing dyes.
• Tactical marking – identification of invisible UV markings and codes.
• Gear inspection – verification of material authenticity and prints.

How a UV diode works and how it differs from a standard LED

A UV diode is a type of LED that emits ultraviolet radiation instead of visible light (most commonly in the UVA range around 365–395 nm). Compared to a standard white LED:

• UV diode – does not illuminate the scene but activates material fluorescence.
• White LED – is used for normal area illumination.

Modern flashlights often combine a powerful white LED with a supplementary UV diode, so a single flashlight can handle both regular lighting and inspection tasks.

Multifunction flashlight Fenix TK25R (available in our e-shop)

Advantages of UV light in practice

• instant verification of document and banknote authenticity,
• quick identification of markings and traces,
• discreet use without visible “revealing”.

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