Cold Plasma Sterilization Devices and Associated Methods

Abstract

A cold plasma sterilization device for sterilization of objects such as medical instruments. Gas is fed to a plasma chamber where it is energized by one or more electrodes coupled to a pulse source to thereby generate a cold plasma inside the plasma chamber. A dielectric barrier is sandwiched between the gas compartment and the electrodes to form a dielectric barrier discharge device. Inside the plasma chamber, one or more conductive stands that are coupled to ground hold the object to-be-sterilized. The cold plasma exits the plasma chamber, where it is recirculated for further use as a plasma source in subsequent cycles. Gases that can be used include noble gases such as helium, or combinations of noble gases.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 535,250, entitled “Harmonic Cold Plasma Devices and Associated Methods”, filed on Sep. 15, 2011, which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety.[0002]This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 149,744, filed May 31, 2011, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 638,161, filed Dec. 15, 2009, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 038,159, filed Feb. 27, 2008, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 913,369, filed Apr. 23, 2007, each of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties.BACKGROUND[0003]1. Field of the Art[0004]The present invention relates to devices and methods for creating cold plasmas, and, more particularly, to cold plasma sterilization methods and application devices.[0005]2. Background Art[0006]Atmospheric pressure hot plasmas are known to exist in nature. F...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a new method for quickly sterilizing surgical instruments without using heat or steam. This is done by using a special gas plasma that can kill many types of harmful organisms. The gas used for this process can be recirculated, which makes it more efficient and reduces costs. The patent also describes a chamber that can hold instruments and a volume of plasma, allowing for longer contact times. Overall, this method can provide a better way to ensure the safety of surgical equipment.

Problems solved by technology

As noted above, autoclaves have a number of disadvantages in their use in the sterilization of medical equipment.

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