Method and device for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged articles - Patents.com

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, an article (210) in a container (202), in which the article (210) is provided packaged in a container (202) that is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses, and has a gas-permeable portion (204), and a reactive gas, in particular a reactive gas stream (26, 38, 120, 620), is generated by a plasma source (2, 32, 118, 318, 618) and the gas-permeable portion (204) of the container (202) is exposed to the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream (26, 38, 120, 620). The invention further relates to methods for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, articles (210) in a container (202), in which the articles (210) are provided packaged in a container (202) that is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses, and in which an electric discharge (412, 413, 512) is generated in a discharge area (406, 506), during which the packaged container (202) of the articles (410) is transported through the discharge area (406, 506). The invention further relates to suitable devices (100, 300, 400, 450, 500, 550) and to the use of the devices for carrying out these methods.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, items in a container. [Background technology]

[0002] Packaging of sterile articles, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and the like, is typically accomplished by sterilizing the articles and then packaging them under sterile environmental conditions, which can increase the labor and expense of the packaging process.

[0003] It is also known to sterilize sterile articles by ethylene oxide gas sterilization in the packaging container. During this process, the sterile articles packaged in a gas-permeable container are exposed to an ethylene oxide atmosphere for several hours. The toxic ethylene oxide must then be completely removed from the container, which usually takes several hours. Ethylene oxide gas sterilization is therefore a very time-consuming and complicated process, and because of the use of ethylene oxide, it is also a dangerous process that is only carried out in large facilities by specialized companies.

[0004] Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of providing a method and an apparatus with which packaged sterile articles can be prepared more easily and / or in less time, even in small systems for example. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] This object is solved according to a first aspect of the present disclosure by a method for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, an article in a container, in which the article is provided packaged in a container that is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses, and has a gas-permeable part, in which a reactive gas, preferably a reactive gas stream, is generated by a plasma source, and in which the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream, is caused to impinge on the gas-permeable part of the container.

[0006] It has been found that when a reactive gas generated by a plasma source is impinged on a gas-permeable portion of a container, reactive species enter the container and can disinfect, particularly sterilize, an article packaged therein, such as a pharmaceutical product or medical device, such that aseptic handling during packaging is less important or even unnecessary because the article within the container can be sterilized, thereby simplifying the packaging process.

[0007] In this method, an article is provided that is packaged in a container that is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses. To this end, the container in particular completely encloses the packaged article. The container may be such that it is impermeable to bacteria. In addition, the container may be such that it is also impermeable to viruses. This allows the article to be stored in the container for long periods of time without the article becoming non-sterile due to the ingress of bacteria and / or viruses.

[0008] The container has a gas permeable portion. In particular, a portion of the container may be gas permeable, or the container may be completely gas permeable. For example, the gas permeable portion may have holes large enough to allow gas to pass through, but small enough to prevent bacteria and / or viruses from entering the container.

[0009] In the method, a reactive gas, in particular a reactive gas stream, is generated by a plasma source. The reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream, may in particular comprise one or more of the following species: fully or partially ionized atoms and / or molecules, excited atoms and / or molecules, reactive atoms and / or molecules, such as ozone or nitrogen oxides. The reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream, may also contain organic peroxides and radicals, in particular generated by the plasma. In particular, the reactive gas can be generated as a reactive gas stream. Thereby, the gas stream can be directed directly onto the container.

[0010] In this method, a reactive gas, in particular a reactive gas stream, is impinged on a gas-permeable portion of the container. For this purpose, the reactive gas stream can be directed onto the container, in particular onto the gas-permeable portion of the container. Furthermore, the reactive gas stream can be introduced into the processing area in which the container is located.

[0011] The above object is further solved according to a first aspect of the present disclosure by an apparatus for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged articles, in particular for carrying out the aforementioned method or an embodiment thereof, comprising a treatment area, a conveying system configured to convey the packaged articles through said treatment area, and a plasma source configured to generate a reactive gas, in particular a reactive gas flow, wherein the plasma source and the treatment area are arranged relative to each other such that the reactive gas generated by the plasma source during operation, in particular the reactive gas flow generated by the plasma source during operation, reaches the treatment area, in particular is introduced into the treatment area.

[0012] It has been found that the above method according to the first aspect of the present disclosure can be effectively carried out in a continuous process using the above apparatus according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0013] The treatment area may in particular be enclosed by a treatment chamber. The treatment area may occupy all or part of the space of the treatment chamber. Preferably, the apparatus comprises a treatment chamber which includes the treatment area and has an inlet and an outlet. Furthermore, the conveying system is preferably adapted to convey the packaged articles through the treatment chamber from the inlet to the outlet. The treatment chamber may for example be a treatment tunnel extending between the inlet and the outlet.

[0014] The conveying system may, for example, comprise one or more conveyor belts on which the packaged articles can be transported.Furthermore, the conveying system may be integrated into a packaging line so that disinfection, in particular sterilization, of the package of articles and the subsequent articles in the package can be performed in-line.

[0015] The plasma source may in particular be a plasma nozzle with a nozzle opening, from which during operation emerges a reactive gas, in particular a reactive gas stream, for example a plasma jet.

[0016] The plasma source and the processing region are arranged relative to one another in such a way that the reactive gas generated by the plasma source during operation, in particular the reactive gas flow generated by the plasma source during operation, reaches the processing region. For this purpose, if the device comprises a processing chamber, the plasma source and the processing chamber may be connected to one another in such a way that the reactive gas generated by the plasma source during operation, in particular the reactive gas flow generated by the plasma source during operation, reaches the processing chamber. For this purpose, the plasma source may be arranged in particular in the processing chamber or may be connected to the processing chamber via a conduit.

[0017] The above method according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is preferably carried out using the above apparatus according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0018] In the following, various embodiments according to the first aspect of the present disclosure are described. The individual embodiments apply independently of one another to both the apparatus and the method according to the first aspect of the provisional disclosure. Moreover, these embodiments may be combined with one another as desired.

[0019] In one embodiment, as reactive gas, in particular reactive gas stream, a gas, in particular a gas stream, is generated at a pressure in the range of ±500 mbar based on the ambient atmospheric pressure, preferably in the range of ±300 mbar based on the ambient atmospheric pressure. As reactive gas, in particular reactive gas stream, in particular atmospheric reactive gas, in particular atmospheric reactive gas stream, in particular atmospheric plasma jet may be generated. This allows to dispense with a vacuum environment, which makes the device cheaper to manufacture or the process more economical to carry out. In addition, if the reactive gas, in particular reactive gas stream, is at a pressure close to the atmospheric pressure range, excessive pressure differences with the inside of the container are prevented, which prevents damage to the container.

[0020] In further embodiments, the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream, is generated by high-frequency arc-like discharge between electrodes in the gas, in particular in the gas stream, and / or by dielectric barrier discharge in the gas, in particular in the gas stream. It has been found that this allows generating reactive gases, in particular reactive gas streams, whose reactive species provide a good disinfection or sterilization effect. In corresponding embodiments, the plasma source is configured to generate the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream, by high-frequency arc-like discharge between electrodes in the gas, in particular in the gas stream, and / or by dielectric barrier discharge in the gas, in particular in the gas stream.

[0021] In order to generate an arc-like discharge, at least two electrodes are provided, as well as a voltage source for applying a high-frequency high voltage to these electrodes. The high-frequency high voltage for generating the high-frequency arc-like discharge has a voltage amplitude in the range of 1 to 100 kV, preferably 1 to 50 kV, and more preferably 1 to 10 kV, and a frequency of 1 to 300 kHz, particularly 1 to 100 kHz, preferably 10 to 100 kHz, and more preferably 10 to 50 kHz.

[0022] To generate a dielectric barrier discharge, in particular at least two electrodes and a dielectric arranged between said electrodes can be provided, preferably one of the electrodes is grounded, and furthermore a voltage source is provided for applying a high frequency high voltage to the electrodes, in particular with a voltage amplitude in the range of 1-15 kV and a voltage frequency in the range of 7.5-25 kHz, in particular 13-14 kHz.

[0023] In one embodiment, for example, the plasma source may comprise a first generating unit, in particular a first plasma nozzle, configured to generate a reactive gas, in particular a reactive gas stream, by high-frequency arc-like discharge between electrodes in a gas, in particular in a gas stream, and a second generating unit, in particular a second plasma nozzle, configured to generate a reactive gas or said reactive gas, in particular a reactive gas stream or said reactive gas stream, by dielectric barrier discharge in a gas, in particular in a gas stream. The first and second generating units may be operated simultaneously or alternately. By operating the first and second generating units, different types of reactive species may be generated. In particular, the composition of reactive species in the reactive gas, in particular in the gas stream, may be selectively adjusted thereby. Furthermore, in order to reduce ozone pollution of the environment, the ozone generated may be reduced by operating the first generating unit during the operation of the second generating unit. The first and second generating units may be arranged adjacent to each other or may be arranged remote from each other. In particular, it may be provided that from the first production unit and from the second production unit, respective reactive gases, in particular respective reactive gas streams, reach the treatment chamber. Alternatively, a common reactive gas, in particular reactive gas stream, can reach the treatment chamber.

[0024] In a further embodiment, water vapor is added to the reactive gas, in particular to the reactive gas stream. The addition of water significantly increases the disinfection or sterilization effect. The addition of water in the form of water vapor, i.e. in gaseous form, allows water to enter the container through the gas-permeable parts of the container. In a corresponding embodiment, the apparatus comprises a water vapor supply device adapted to add water vapor to the reactive gas, in particular to the reactive gas stream.

[0025] In a further embodiment, a reactant, in particular an organic reactant or hydrogen peroxide, is added to the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream. By adding the reactant, the disinfection or sterilization effect is significantly increased. In particular, the reactant reaches the container through a gas-permeable part of the container. In a corresponding embodiment, the apparatus comprises a reactant supply device configured to add a reactant, in particular an organic reactant or hydrogen peroxide, to the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream.

[0026] Preferably, water vapor and a reactant, in particular a mixture of water vapor and a reactant, are added to the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream. For this purpose, the apparatus preferably has a water vapor supply device configured to add water vapor and a reactant to the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream. The organic reactant may in particular be an oxygen-containing organic compound, in particular an alcohol, a carboxylic acid, peracetic acid, an ether or an organic peroxide, and / or a nitrogen-containing organic compound.

[0027] The water vapor and / or reactants may be added to the reactive gas, in particular to the reactive gas stream, by introducing the water vapor and / or reactants into the reactive gas during or after the generation of the reactive gas, although it is also possible that the water vapor and / or reactants are added to the reactive gas by the working gas used in generating the reactive gas, since the water vapor and / or reactants are already present in and are in particular added to the working gas for generating the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream.

[0028] The water vapor and / or reactants can be actively added to the working gas and / or reactive gas, for example, by introducing water vapor and / or reactants into the working gas and / or reactive gas. The water vapor and / or reactants can also be passively added to the working gas and / or reactive gas, for example, by passing the working gas and / or reactive gas over a surface wetted with water and / or reactive material, for example over a sponge wetted with water and / or reactive material, for example a ceramic sponge.

[0029] In a further embodiment, a heating device is provided for heating the working gas and / or reactive gas, especially before the addition of water vapor and / or reactants, which allows improving the absorption of water vapor and / or reactants by the working gas and / or reactive gas, especially in the case of passive addition by higher evaporation.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the relative humidity of the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream, when impinging on the gas-permeable part of the container is less than 100% RH, preferably in the range of 60-95% RH. This allows reducing or completely avoiding condensation of water vapor on the container. In a corresponding embodiment, the apparatus preferably comprises a controlled water vapor supply device configured to add water vapor to the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream, in an amount such that the relative humidity of the reactive gas, in particular the reactive gas stream, in the treatment area is less than 100% RH, preferably in the range of 60-95% RH.

[0031] In a further embodiment, the processing area and the conveying system are adapted so that the residence time in the processing area of ​​the packaged articles conveyed through the processing area by the conveying system is at least 5 minutes, preferably at least 10 minutes, in particular at least 30 minutes.

[0032] In a further embodiment, the treatment chamber and the conveying system are adapted such that the residence time in the treatment chamber of the packaged articles conveyed through the treatment chamber by the conveying system is at least 5 minutes, preferably at least 10 minutes, in particular at least 30 minutes.

[0033] Residence times in the treatment zones and / or chambers may be as long as at least 60 minutes, for example when treating large vessels.

[0034] By adapting the treatment areas and / or chambers and the conveying system as described above, safe disinfection or sterilization of the packaged goods can be ensured. Such a residence time can be achieved, for example, with a correspondingly slow conveying system. However, preferably, at least the size of the treatment areas and / or chambers and / or the length of the conveying system are also such that such a residence time can be achieved, for example, even with a conveying speed of at least 10 mm / s. This simplifies the integration of the device into an in-line process. The conveying system can be configured, for example, to convey the packaged goods through the treatment areas and / or chambers in a serpentine manner and / or on several levels.

[0035] In a further embodiment, an airlock chamber is arranged upstream of the inlet to the treatment chamber and / or downstream of the outlet from the treatment chamber, the airlock chamber preferably having an aspirating device configured to aspirate gas from the airlock chamber. In particular, an airlock chamber may be arranged upstream of the inlet and downstream of the outlet, respectively. This allows to reduce the amount of reactive species, such as ozone or nitrogen oxides, that reach the outside of the device.

[0036] The transport system preferably passes through one or more airlock chambers.

[0037] One or more of the airlock chambers may have movable airlock gates that each open before the packaged articles enter the airlock and / or exit the airlock and close thereafter.

[0038] In a further embodiment, the device has a gas guide surface arranged opposite the area of ​​the conveying system, the plasma source being arranged such that the reactive gas generated during operation, in particular the reactive gas stream generated, penetrates into the area between the gas guide surface and the packaged goods conveyed through the area of ​​the conveying system, whereby an increase in the dynamic pressure of the reactive gas stream can be achieved in the area of ​​the container, in particular in the area of ​​the gas-permeable part, whereby the reactive species of the gas stream can be introduced more effectively into the packaging container.

[0039] The aforementioned object is further solved according to a second aspect of the present disclosure by a method for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, articles in a container, in which the articles are provided packaged in a container that is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses, and in which an electric discharge is generated in a discharge area, through which the packaged container of the articles is transported.

[0040] It has been found that disinfection, particularly sterilization, of the articles within the container can be achieved by passing the packaged articles through a discharge area, thereby making aseptic handling during packaging less important or even unnecessary, as the articles within the container can be disinfected or sterilized, thereby simplifying the packaging process.

[0041] In particular, this allows for the generation of an electrical discharge within the packaging container, which creates a reactive atmosphere therein, whereby the packaged goods are disinfected or sterilized.

[0042] It has been recognized that the atmosphere within the container can remain reactive for an extended period of time, even after passing through the discharge area, thereby resulting in effective disinfection, and in particular sterilization, even when the exposure time of the container within the discharge area is fairly short.

[0043] During the process, the packaged article is provided in a container that is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses. To this end, the container encloses the packaged article, in particular completely. The container may be such that it is impermeable to bacteria. In addition, the container may be such that it is likewise impermeable to viruses. This allows the article to be stored in the container for a particularly long period of time without bacteria and / or viruses penetrating the container and thus rendering the article non-sterile.

[0044] During the process, an electric discharge is generated in the discharge region, the electric discharge being preferably a high frequency discharge.

[0045] The container with the goods packaged therein can be transported through the discharge area, in particular by a conveying system, for example a conveyor belt.

[0046] The aforementioned object is further solved according to a second aspect of the present disclosure by an apparatus for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged articles, in particular for carrying out the above-mentioned method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure, the apparatus having an electrode and a counter electrode, a discharge area arranged between the electrode and the counter electrode, and a dielectric arranged between the electrode and the counter electrode, and capable of applying a high frequency voltage between the electrode and the counter electrode to generate a discharge in the discharge area, the apparatus including a conveying system configured to convey the packaged articles through the discharge area.

[0047] It has been found that the above method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure can be effectively carried out in a continuous process using the above apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0048] The dielectric is disposed between the electrode and the counter electrode, which prevents the container being transported through the discharge region from being damaged by a strong direct discharge between the electrode and the counter electrode. In particular, the dielectric may be disposed directly on the electrode and / or on the counter electrode. For example, the electrode and / or the counter electrode may be coated with a layer of dielectric.

[0049] The counter electrode is preferably grounded, however, alternatively the electrode can be grounded.

[0050] The discharge area preferably has a height of at most 5 cm, more preferably at most 3 cm, in particular at most 1 cm. The distance between the electrode and the counter-electrode is therefore preferably at most 5 cm, more preferably at most 3 cm, in particular at most 1 cm. This makes it possible to achieve intensive treatment of the packaged goods in the discharge area.

[0051] Preferably, the above method according to the second aspect of the present disclosure is carried out using the above apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0052] In the following, various embodiments according to the second aspect of the present disclosure are described. The individual embodiments apply independently of one another to both the method and the apparatus according to the second aspect of the provisional disclosure. Moreover, these embodiments may be combined with one another as desired.

[0053] In one embodiment, the container has a gas-permeable portion. In particular, a portion of the container may be gas-permeable, or the container may be completely gas-permeable. For example, the gas-permeable portion may have holes large enough to allow gas to pass through, but small enough to prevent bacteria and / or viruses from entering the container. The gas-permeable portion allows reactive gases generated outside the container by electrical discharge to enter the container and sterilize the items packaged therein. This allows, for example, reactive species generated both inside and outside the container by electrical discharge to have a sterilizing effect. Furthermore, water vapor contained in the container, particularly water vapor from water introduced into the container for sterilization, to escape through the gas-permeable portion.

[0054] In one embodiment of the method, an electrical discharge is generated between at least one electrode and at least one counter electrode, and a container with the goods packaged therein is conveyed through between the at least one electrode and the at least one counter electrode.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the method, a dielectric barrier discharge is generated in the discharge region. In a corresponding embodiment of the apparatus, the electrode, the counter electrode and the dielectric are configured to generate a dielectric barrier discharge in the discharge region.

[0056] To generate a dielectric barrier discharge, a voltage source can be provided, in particular for applying a high frequency high voltage to the electrode and counter electrode, for example with a voltage in the range of 1 to 15 kV, in particular 2 to 15 kV, and with a frequency in the range of 7.5 to 25 kHz, in particular 13 to 14 kHz.

[0057] To generate a dielectric barrier discharge, the electrode and the counter-electrode may in particular have electrode surfaces arranged opposite each other, preferably parallel to each other.

[0058] The electrode and / or the counter electrode may preferably have edges or curved surfaces, in particular with a small radius of curvature, which increases the electric field strength at the edges or curved surfaces and thus creates a dielectric barrier discharge. The other electrode and / or the counter electrode may have, for example, a flat electrode surface.

[0059] In a further embodiment, the electrode and / or the counter electrode are configured as flat plate electrodes, which can provide a larger and more uniform discharge area.

[0060] In a further embodiment, the device comprises several, preferably rod-shaped electrodes. The electrodes can in particular be surrounded by a dielectric, for example coated with a dielectric. In particular, a high-frequency voltage can be applied between each of the plurality of electrodes and the counter-electrode in order to generate a discharge in the discharge area, in particular a dielectric barrier discharge. The plurality of electrodes can for example be arranged side-by-side opposite the counter-electrode. This in particular allows the discharge area to be extended for the generation of a dielectric barrier discharge.

[0061] In a further embodiment, the transport system includes a moveable conveyor belt configured to transport the packaged articles through the discharge region. The conveyor belt may, for example, extend directly over the electrode or counter-electrode.

[0062] In a further embodiment, the conveyor belt forms the electrode, counter electrode or dielectric, which can reduce the number of components.

[0063] If the conveyor belt forms the electrode or counter-electrode, the conveyor belt is particularly electrically conductive and a high frequency voltage can be applied between the conveyor belt and the electrode or counter-electrode to generate a discharge in the discharge region. The conveyor belt is preferably grounded.

[0064] The conveyor belt may also be formed from a dielectric and extend between the electrode and the counter-electrode in such a way as to prevent direct discharge between the electrode and the counter-electrode, thereby eliminating the need for a further dielectric, although a further dielectric may instead be provided, for example a dielectric coating on the electrode and / or the counter-electrode.

[0065] In a further embodiment, nitrogen and / or a noble gas is introduced into the discharge region. Preferably, an atmosphere is generated in the discharge region that contains at least 50% by volume, preferably at least 90% by volume, of nitrogen and / or one or more noble gases, such as helium and / or argon. This allows for a better discharge to be achieved, since nitrogen and especially the noble gases can be ionized more easily than air. Furthermore, this allows for a longer distance to be provided between the at least one electrode and the at least one counter electrode, so that larger vessels can be transported through the discharge region.

[0066] In a corresponding embodiment, in particular for generating a nitrogen and / or noble gas atmosphere in the discharge region, the apparatus comprises a nitrogen and / or noble gas source, e.g. a nitrogen and / or noble gas bottle, and is configured to introduce nitrogen and / or noble gas from the nitrogen and / or noble gas source into the discharge region.

[0067] In a further embodiment, the device comprises a housing with a tunnel in which the discharge area is located or the device comprises a suction hood located in the discharge area, thereby reducing the exposure of the environment to reactive species formed by the discharge, in particular ozone. A suction hood can also be provided on the housing to extract ozone escaping from the discharge area.

[0068] In the following, various embodiments according to the first and second aspects of the present disclosure are described. The individual embodiments apply independently of each other to both the method according to the first and second aspects and to the device according to the first and second aspects. Furthermore, these embodiments may be combined with each other and with the above embodiments as desired.

[0069] In one embodiment, the container is a sterile container for a sterile item, for example for a pharmaceutical product or a medical device.

[0070] In one embodiment, the gas-permeable portion of the container is at least partially formed from a nonwoven fabric, in particular from a plastic nonwoven fabric, for example of polyethylene. Such nonwoven fabrics have been found to be sufficiently gas-permeable to prevent the ingress of bacteria into the container on the one hand, and to provide reliable disinfection, in particular sterilization, of the items in the container on the other hand. A suitable nonwoven fabric is, for example, Tyvek®, available from DuPont de Nemours, Wilmington, Delaware, USA.

[0071] In a further embodiment, the container is at least substantially impermeable or impermeable to liquid water or liquids in general from the outside. In particular, the container may be completely impermeable or semi-permeable to liquids, allowing liquids to pass out of the container but not into it. This makes it possible to prevent unwanted moisture from entering the article from the outside.

[0072] To provide water in the packaging container, which significantly increases the disinfection or sterilization effect, water, in particular in the form of steam, i.e. gaseous water, can be introduced into the container from the outside. Alternatively, water can be provided to the packaged goods already in the container. Reactive substances can be dissolved in the water in the container. In particular, organic molecules can be dissolved in the water in the container. These organic molecules can be turned into reactive organic peroxides by the plasma discharge, accelerating the sterilization process.

[0073] In a further embodiment, the container comprises a molded body, particularly made of plastic, for containing the article and a lid, particularly made of a gas-permeable material, particularly made of a nonwoven fabric. For example, the container may be a blister pack. Such a container is well suited and practical for pharmaceutical and medical products. In addition, it has been shown that the article packaged in such a container can be well disinfected or sterilized using the above-mentioned method and device.

[0074] In a further embodiment, the container has a receiving space in which the article is placed, which is a gas atmosphere, thereby improving the disinfection or sterilization effect. In particular, the above-mentioned method and device can be used to generate a reactive atmosphere in the container. This reactive atmosphere remains reactive even after the collision with the reactive gas, in particular the gas flow, has ended or after leaving the discharge area, thereby disinfecting and / or sterilizing the article.

[0075] In particular, when the vessel is transported through the discharge region, an electric discharge can be generated in the gas atmosphere of the containing space and thus within the vessel, and reactive species are formed directly within the vessel.

[0076] In a further embodiment, the article packaged in the container is pre-wetted and / or the gas atmosphere in the receiving space of the container in which the article is placed has a relative humidity of at least 60% RH, preferably at least 70% RH, measured at 20° C. In particular, moisture, which significantly improves the disinfecting or sterilizing effect of the reactive atmosphere, can already be introduced into the container during packaging, so that a subsequent introduction of water is no longer necessary. If a reactive gas, in particular a gas flow, is used, the gas flow can in particular have a relative humidity of <60% RH.

[0077] In a further embodiment, the article is a medicine, a medical device, in particular a medical apparatus, or a protective gear. The medical device may be, for example, an endoscope, a surgical tool or instrument, or a surgical tray. The protective gear may be, for example, a face mask or a glove.

[0078] The article may be pre-disinfected, in particular pre-sterilized. In particular, the surface of the difficult-to-access article, for example the inner surface of a tube, pipe or the like, of a medical device such as an endoscope, may be pre-disinfected, in particular pre-sterilized. This means that in the disinfection, in particular sterilization described herein, it is no longer necessary to disinfect or sterilize the surface of the difficult-to-access article. Rather, it may be sufficient to disinfect or sterilize the surface of an easily accessible product that is contaminated or no longer sterile again, for example after pre-disinfection or pre-sterilization, for example during the packaging process.

[0079] The above mentioned object is further solved according to the first aspect of the present disclosure by the use of an apparatus according to the first aspect of the present disclosure or an embodiment thereof for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged articles.

[0080] The above object is further solved according to a second aspect of the present disclosure by the use of an apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure or an embodiment thereof for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged articles.

[0081] Further advantages and features of the apparatus and method will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0082] [Figure 1] 1 shows a plasma source for generating a reactive gas flow. [Diagram 2] A further plasma source for generating a reactive gas flow is shown. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to a first aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Shows an item packaged within a container. [Diagram 5] 5 illustrates processing of the packaged article of FIG. 4 through the apparatus of FIG. [Figure 6] 4A shows a further exemplary embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 4A shows a further exemplary embodiment of the apparatus according to the first aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to a second aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Processing of the packaged article of FIG. 4 with the apparatus of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 4 is a further exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 4 is a further exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] A further embodiment of the apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0083] FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a plasma source 2 in the form of a plasma nozzle for generating a reactive gas flow 26 in the form of an atmospheric plasma jet by means of an arc-like discharge.

[0084] The plasma nozzle 2 has a metallic nozzle tube 4 which tapers conically towards a nozzle opening 6. At the end opposite the nozzle opening 6, the nozzle tube 4 has a swirl device 8 with an inlet 10 for a gas flow, in particular a working gas, for example air or nitrogen.

[0085] The intermediate wall 12 of the swirl device 8 has ring-shaped holes 14 arranged obliquely in the circumferential direction, through which the gas flow is twisted. Thus, a gas flow in the form of a vortex 16 flows through the downstream, conically tapering part of the nozzle tube. The center of this vortex runs along the longitudinal axis of the nozzle tube. An internal electrode 18 is centrally arranged on the underside of the intermediate wall 12, which projects coaxially into the nozzle tube in the direction of the tapered section. The electrode 18 is electrically connected to the intermediate wall 12 and to the rest of the swirl device 8. The swirl device 8 is electrically insulated from the nozzle tube 4 by a ceramic or quartz glass tube 20. A high-frequency high voltage generated by a transformer 22 is applied to the electrode 18 via the swirl device 8. The inlet 10 is supplied with a gas flow 23 via a line, not shown. The nozzle tube 4 is grounded. The applied voltage generates a high-frequency discharge in the form of an arc 24 between the electrode 18 and the nozzle tube 4.

[0086] The terms "arc", "arc discharge" or "arc-like discharge" are used here as a phenomenological description of the discharge, since the discharge occurs in the form of an arc. The term "arc" is also used elsewhere as a discharge form of a DC discharge with an essentially constant voltage value. However, in this case it refers to a high frequency discharge in the form of an arc, i.e. a high frequency arc-like discharge.

[0087] However, due to the swirling flow of the working gas, this arc is carried in a vortex center on the axis of the nozzle tube 4 and finally branches off to the wall of the nozzle tube 4 in the area of ​​the nozzle opening 6. The working gas rotating at high flow speeds in the region of the vortex center and therefore in the immediate vicinity of the arc 24 comes into intimate contact with the arc and is thus partially converted into a plasma state, and an atmospheric plasma jet 26 emerges from the plasma nozzle 2 through the nozzle opening 6.

[0088] FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a further plasma source 32 in the form of a nozzle for generating a reactive gas flow by dielectric barrier discharge.

[0089] The nozzle 32 comprises a metallic nozzle tube 34, at whose upstream end 35 is arranged a distribution head 36 with an inlet 37 for a gas flow 38, e.g., air, and an annular distribution channel 40. At the opposite downstream end 42 of the nozzle tube 34 is arranged an outlet nozzle 44 with a nozzle opening 46 from which emerges a reactive gas flow 38, entrained with reactive species, during operation.

[0090] The ceramic tube 48 extends from the distribution head 36 through the nozzle tube 34 into the outlet nozzle 44 in such a way that an annular discharge channel 50 extends between the nozzle tube 34 and the ceramic tube 48 from the distribution channel 40 to the outlet nozzle 44. Instead of a ceramic tube, a tube made of, for example, quartz glass may also be considered.

[0091] A tubular metallic high voltage electrode 52 is arranged inside the ceramic tube 48 and is connected via a high voltage cable 54 to a transformer 56 by means of which a high frequency high voltage can be applied between the high voltage electrode 52 and the grounded nozzle tube 34 acting as a counter electrode. Instead of the tubular high voltage electrode 52, a high voltage electrode of a different shape, for example in the form of a rounded sheet, may also be considered.

[0092] Insulating plugs 58 are disposed within the ceramic tube 48 to enclose the high voltage electrode 52 and further prevent the working gas from flowing into the area of ​​the high voltage electrode 52 or out of the nozzle 32 through the ceramic tube 48. Additionally, a sealing ring 60 is inserted into an annular groove 62 on the distribution head 36 to seal the distribution head 36 to the ceramic tube 48.

[0093] A coolant wire 64, through which coolant may be directed during operation to cool the nozzle tube 34, may be provided about the nozzle tube 34. The coolant wire 64 may, for example, extend helically around the nozzle tube 34 as shown.

[0094] During operation, a gas flow 38 is introduced into the distribution head 36 through the inlet 37 and flows through the annular discharge channel 50 .

[0095] A high frequency high voltage is applied between the high voltage electrode 52 and the nozzle tube 34 using a transformer 56, causing a dielectric barrier discharge to occur within the discharge channel 50 in the region of the high voltage electrode 52, which produces reactive species, in particular ozone, in the gas stream 38 flowing therethrough.

[0096] The reactive gas stream 38 entrained with reactants exits the nozzle opening 46 .

[0097] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the first aspect of the present disclosure in a schematic cross-sectional view from the side.

[0098] The device 100 for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged articles 200 comprises a treatment chamber 104 having an inlet 106 and an outlet 108. The treatment chamber 104 comprises a treatment area 103. This treatment area may occupy the entire volume of the treatment chamber 104 or may occupy only a part of it. Upstream of the inlet 106 and downstream of the outlet 108, respective airlock chambers 110, 112 are arranged.

[0099] The apparatus 100 further comprises a transport system 114, which comprises a number of drivable conveyor belts 116a-116e, configured to transport the packaged articles 200 first through the first lock chamber 110, then through the treatment chamber 104 and the treatment area 103 contained by this treatment chamber from the entrance 106 to the exit 108, and finally through the second lock chamber 112. Instead of multiple conveyor belts 116a-116e, for example a continuous conveyor belt may also be provided.

[0100] Additionally, the apparatus 100 includes a plasma source 118 configured to generate a reactive gas flow 120. For example, the plasma source 118 may be configured similarly to the plasma source 2 of FIG. 1 or similarly to the plasma source 32 of FIG.

[0101] The plasma source 118 is connected to the process chamber 104 via a feed line 122, and the reactive gas flow 120 reaches the process chamber 104 and thus the processing region 103 where it is distributed. In particular, the reactive gas flow 120 reaches in this manner packaged articles 200 that are transported through the processing region 103 by the transport system 114 during operation.

[0102] 4 shows an example of such a packaged article 200. The container 202 of the packaged article 200 is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses. Furthermore, the container 202 has a gas permeable portion 204 or is completely gas permeable such that this gas permeable portion corresponds to the entire container 202.

[0103] For example, the container 202 may be a blister-type container having a plastic molding 206 with a receiving space 208 for the actual item 210, and a lid 212 made of a gas-permeable material, such as a non-woven plastic. The lid 212 may be made of Tyvek, for example. In particular, the receiving space 208 contains a gas atmosphere 213.

[0104] The article 210 may be, for example, a medicine, such as a pill, or a medical device, such as a filled syringe, an endoscope, a surgical tool or instrument, or a surgical tray, or protective equipment, such as a face mask, gloves, or protective clothing.

[0105] Fig. 5 shows in a schematic diagram the treatment of the packaged goods 200 of Fig. 4 by the device 100 of Fig. 3. As a result of the introduction of the reactive gas flow 120 into the treatment chamber 104, this reactive gas flow 120 reaches both the packaged goods 200 conveyed by the conveyor belt 116c through the treatment chamber 104 and the treatment area 103 enclosed by this treatment chamber, and in particular also the gas-permeable part 204 of the container 202, and a part of the reactive gas flow 120 containing reactive species reaches the gas atmosphere 213 in the receiving chamber 208 in which the goods 210 are placed. In so doing, the reactive species act on the goods 210 and also on the inside of the container 202, which causes a disinfection, in particular a sterilization effect.

[0106] This disinfection, and in particular sterilization, effect is significantly increased if the gas atmosphere 213 contains water. To introduce water into the gas atmosphere 213, the device 100 may, for example, comprise a water evaporator 124, which mixes water vapor into the reactive gas flow 120. The water vapor from the water evaporator 124 may, for example, be introduced into the feed line 122, as shown in FIG. 3, or directly into the process chamber 104. It is also conceivable to integrate the water evaporator 124 directly into the feed line 122, so that the reactive gas flow generated by the plasma source 118 passes through the water evaporator and is thereby mixed with water vapor.

[0107] Preferably, the water evaporator 124 is controlled, for example via an air humidity sensor 126 arranged in the treatment chamber 104, in such a way that the air humidity in the treatment chamber 104 and / or in the treatment area 103, in particular in the area of ​​the packaged goods 200, is less than 100% RH, preferably between 60-80% RH. This ensures, on the one hand, that sufficient water is available to improve the disinfection, in particular sterilization, effect and, on the other hand, avoids the precipitation of condensate on the container 202.

[0108] The gaseous water vapor passes through gas permeable zone 204 into container 202 along with reactive gas stream 120 and, together with the reactive species of the reactive gas stream, effectively disinfects or sterilizes item 210 and the inside of container 202 .

[0109] Instead of introducing water into the container 202 from the outside, the packaged article 200 can also be provided with water already in the container 202. For this purpose, for example, the article 210 can be moistened before or during packaging, or a water vapor-laden atmosphere can be added to the container 202 during packaging. In this case, the water evaporator 124 may not be required and the packaged article 200 can be exposed to a relatively dry reactive gas stream, for example a reactive gas stream having a humidity of less than 60% RH, or even less than 40% RH.

[0110] To keep the reactive gas flow 120 within the process chamber 104 and reduce or possibly completely avoid contamination of the environment with reactive species, such as ozone or nitrogen oxides, the apparatus 100 in Fig. 3 preferably includes airlock chambers 110, 112, each of which has a controllable movable airlock gate 128. During operation, the airlock gate 128 alternately opens and closes to allow the packaged articles 200 to be moved through the airlock chambers 110, 112 and the process chamber 104 without significant escape of reactive species from the apparatus 100. To further reduce ambient exposure to reactive species, the airlock chambers 110, 112 may also include respective suction devices 130 for suctioning reactive species passing from the process chamber 104 into the airlock chambers 110, 112. Preferably, the suction devices 130 operate in such a way that no negative pressure is created within the process chamber 104, so that foreign gases are not drawn into the process chamber 104 from the outside.

[0111] Because the conveying system 114 allows for at least quasi-continuous operation despite the presence of the airlocks 110, 112, the apparatus 100 can be well integrated into an in-line process, for example after a packaging station where the articles 210 are packaged into containers 202.

[0112] FIG. 6 shows in schematic top view a further exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0113] In principle, the device 300 has a structure very similar to that of the device 100 of Fig. 3. In addition, reference is made to the description thereof. In particular, the device 300 comprises a treatment chamber 304 including a treatment region 303, as well as airlock chambers 310, 312 with respective suction devices (not shown). Into the treatment chamber, a reactive gas flow generated by a plasma source 318 and, if necessary, water vapor are introduced. Furthermore, a transport system 314 is provided for transporting the packaged articles 200 through the airlock chambers 310, 312 and through the treatment chamber 304 from the inlet 306 to the outlet 308.

[0114] Within the apparatus 300, the conveying system 314 extends in a serpentine manner through the treatment chamber 304. This ensures a sufficiently long residence time of the packaged articles 200 within the treatment chamber 304 or treatment area 303, of at least 5 minutes, preferably at least 10 minutes, in particular at least 30 minutes, at a conveying speed sufficient for an effective in-line process.

[0115] FIG. 7 shows in schematic cross-sectional view a further exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the first aspect of the present disclosure.

[0116] The device 600 for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged articles 200 comprises a conveying system 614 with a drivable conveyor belt 616. Furthermore, the device 600 comprises a plasma source 618 configured to generate a reactive gas flow 620. The reactive gas flow emerges from a nozzle opening 619 of the plasma source 618 during operation. The plasma source 618 may be configured, for example, like the plasma source 2 of FIG. 1 or like the plasma source 32 of FIG. 2. The nozzle opening 619 is arranged opposite the section 617 of the conveyor belt 616. Furthermore, in the area of ​​the nozzle opening 619, a flat plate 630 with a gas guide surface 632 is arranged. The flat plate 630 has a central opening 634, to which the nozzle opening 619 of the plasma source 618 is connected. In this way, during operation, the reactive gas flow 620 penetrates into the treatment area 603 between the gas guide surface 632 and the conveyor belt 616. Additionally, a water vaporizer may be provided to add water vapor to the reactive gas flow, for example, the plasma source 618 may be supplied with a working gas that is mixed with water vapor.

[0117] Preferably, the plate 630 is positioned such that the gas guide surface 632 is aligned parallel to the conveyor belt 616 .

[0118] During operation, the transport system 614 transports the packaged article 200 through the processing area 603. The reactive gas flow 620 exiting the plasma source 618 is guided by the gas guide surface 632 through the area 636 between the gas guide surface 632 and the packaged article 200. This achieves an intense interaction of the gas flow 620 with the container 202, in particular its gas-permeable portion 204, allowing the reactive species to penetrate into the container 202. In particular, by restricting the area 636 between the gas guide surface 632 and the packaging container 202, the dynamic pressure of the gas flow 620 can be increased, which promotes the penetration of the reactive species into the packaging container 202.

[0119] The apparatus 600 may optionally include a process chamber 642 enclosed by a housing 640 and having an inlet 644 and an outlet 646, and containing a process region 603. In this embodiment, the process region 603 forms only a portion of the process chamber 642.

[0120] Preferably, the above-mentioned devices 100, 300, 600 according to the first aspect of the disclosure are used for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged items in a container. In particular, the above-mentioned devices 100, 300, 600 can be used for carrying out a method according to the first aspect of the disclosure, in which an item 210 is provided packaged in a container 202 that is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses, and has a gas-permeable portion 204, and in which a reactive gas stream 120 is generated by a plasma source 118, 318, 618, respectively, and which is impinged against the gas-permeable portion 204 of the container 202.

[0121] This makes it easier and more cost effective to provide packaged articles that are sterile.

[0122] FIG. 8 shows in schematic cross-sectional view an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the second aspect of the present disclosure.

[0123] The device 400 includes an electrode 402, a counter electrode 404, and a discharge region 406 disposed between the electrode 402 and the counter electrode 404. In this example, the electrode 402 and the counter electrode 404 are formed as planar plate electrodes facing parallel to each other.

[0124] Furthermore, the apparatus 400 includes a voltage source 408 for generating a high frequency high voltage between the electrode 402 and the counter electrode 404, and for this purpose, these electrodes and the counter electrode are electrically connected to the voltage source 408. The counter electrode 404 is grounded.

[0125] A dielectric 410 in the form of a dielectric coating on the electrode 402 is further disposed between the electrode 402 and the counter electrode 404, which prevents a direct discharge between the electrode 402 and the counter electrode 404. In this manner, a dielectric barrier discharge 412 is generated in the discharge region 406 when a high frequency high voltage is applied between the electrode 402 and the counter electrode 404 by the voltage source 408.

[0126] The apparatus further includes a transport system 414, which in Fig. 8 includes a conveyor belt 416, which can be used to transport the packaged articles 200 through the discharge region 406. To this end, the conveyor belt 416 extends through the discharge region and may, for example, slide over the counter electrode 404 as shown in Fig. 8.

[0127] To reduce environmental exposure to reactive species, such as ozone or nitrogen oxides, generated during the dielectric barrier discharge 412, the apparatus 400 further comprises a housing 418, which forms a tunnel 420 through which the conveyor belt 416 passes and within which the discharge region 406 is disposed. A suction device 422 may be provided on the housing, which may suck in excess reactive species to further reduce environmental contamination.

[0128] Fig. 9 shows a schematic diagram of the treatment of the packaged item 200 of Fig. 4 in the device 400 of Fig. 8. The discharge 412 in the discharge area 406 causes the production of reactive species, for example ozone, which pass through the gas-permeable part 204 of the container 202 into the container 202, thus exerting a disinfecting, in particular sterilizing effect on the item 210. It has been found that the discharge 413 can also take place in the gas atmosphere 213 in the receiving space 208 of the container 202 itself, so that reactive species are produced directly in the container 202. This also makes it possible to achieve an intensive disinfecting, in particular sterilizing treatment of the item 210 and the inside of the container 202.

[0129] This disinfection, and in particular sterilization, effect is significantly enhanced if the gas atmosphere 213 contains water. For example, to introduce water into the gas atmosphere 213, the device 400 may include a water vaporizer 424 that mixes water vapor into the atmosphere in the discharge region 406.

[0130] Preferably, the water vaporizer 424 is controlled via an air humidity sensor 426, for example arranged in the housing 418, in order to ensure that the air humidity in the discharge area 406 is less than 100% RH, preferably between 60 and 80% RH. This ensures, on the one hand, that sufficient water is available to improve the disinfection, in particular the sterilization effect, and, on the other hand, avoids the deposition of condensate on the container 202.

[0131] The gaseous water vapor passes through gas permeable portion 204 into container 202 and, together with the reactive species generated by discharges 412 or 413, effectively disinfects or sterilizes item 210 and the inside of container 202.

[0132] Instead of introducing water into the container 202 from the outside, the packaged article 200 can also be provided with water already in the container 202. For this purpose, for example, the article 210 can be moistened before or during packaging, or an atmosphere mixed with water vapor can be added to the container 202 during packaging. In this case, the water evaporator 424 may also be omitted and the atmosphere in the discharge area 406 may be relatively dry, for example having a humidity of less than 60% RH, or even less than 40% RH.

[0133] Fig. 10 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the device according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. The device 450 has a structure very similar to the device 400 of Fig. 9. In addition, reference is made to the description thereof. Corresponding components are indicated with the same reference numerals.

[0134] Apparatus 450 differs from apparatus 400 in that conveyor system 414 includes a conveyor belt 452 made of a conductive material, which conveyor belt 452 forms a counter-electrode to electrode 402. To this end, conveyor belt 452 is grounded, which makes it possible to dispense with a separate counter-electrode.

[0135] Additionally, the apparatus 450 differs from the apparatus 400 in that a suction hood 454 is provided in place of a housing in the discharge region 406, i.e., above the discharge region, to suck in reactive species escaping from the discharge region.

[0136] Fig. 11 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the device according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. The device 500 has a structure very similar to the device 400 of Fig. 9. In addition, reference is made to the description thereof. Corresponding components are indicated with the same reference numerals.

[0137] The device 500 differs from the device 400 in that, instead of the flat electrode 402 and the dielectric 410 formed as a coating, a plurality of rod-shaped electrodes 502 with small diameters and therefore small radii of curvature are provided, which are arranged side by side opposite the counter electrode 404. Furthermore, a respective dielectric 510 is provided in the form of a dielectric coating on the electrode 502. When a high-frequency high voltage is applied between the electrode 502 and the counter electrode 404, an electric field rise occurs at the electrode 502, which generates a dielectric barrier discharge 512 in a discharge region 506 arranged between the electrode 502 and the counter electrode 404. The reactive species thus generated in the discharge region 506 pass through the gas permeable portion 204 of the packaged article 200 conveyed through the discharge region 506 into the container, thereby causing disinfection, in particular sterilization, of the article 210 in the container.

[0138] Furthermore, it has been found that even in an electrode-counterelectrode arrangement such as that in FIG. 11, a discharge can be generated in the gas atmosphere 213, thereby generating reactive species directly within the vessel 202.

[0139] Fig. 12 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the device according to the second aspect of the present disclosure. The device 550 has a structure very similar to the device 400 of Fig. 9. In addition, reference is made to the description thereof. Corresponding components are indicated with the same reference numerals.

[0140] Apparatus 550 differs from apparatus 500 in that the conveyor system 414, like apparatus 450 of Fig. 10, includes a conveyor belt 452 of conductive material, which conveyor belt 452 forms a counter-electrode to electrode 502. To this end, conveyor belt 452 is grounded, which makes it possible to dispense with a separate counter-electrode.

[0141] Additionally, the apparatus 550 differs from the apparatus 500 in that instead of a housing, such as the apparatus 450 of FIG. 10, a suction hood 454 is provided that is disposed above the discharge region 506 to suck in reactive species escaping from the discharge region.

[0142] Preferably, the above-mentioned devices 400, 450, 500, 550 according to the second aspect of the disclosure are used for disinfecting, in particular sterilizing, packaged articles in a container. In particular, the above-mentioned devices 400, 450, 500, 550 may be used for carrying out a method according to the second aspect of the disclosure, in which an article 210 packaged in a container 202 that is impermeable to germs, in particular bacteria and / or viruses, and that includes a gas-permeable portion 204 is provided, and in the discharge areas 406 and / or 506, respectively, electric discharges 412, 413, 512 are generated during which the packaged container 202 of the article 410 is transported through the discharge areas 406, 506, respectively.

[0143] This makes it easier and more cost effective to provide packaged articles that are sterile.

Claims

1. A method for sterilizing an item (210) in a container (202), comprising: - an article (210) is provided that is packaged in a container (202) that is impermeable to bacteria and has a gas-permeable portion (204); a plasma source (2, 32, 118, 318, 618) generates a reactive gas flow (26, 38, 120, 620) at a pressure in the range of ±500 mbar based on the ambient atmospheric pressure, said reactive gas flow (26, 38, 120, 620) being generated by a high frequency arc-like discharge between electrodes in the gas flow, - water vapor is added to said reactive gas stream (26, 38, 120, 620); - the reactive gas stream (26, 38, 120, 620) is impinged on the gas permeable portion (204) of the vessel (202); the relative humidity of the reactive gas stream (26, 38, 120, 620) when impinged on the gas permeable portion (204) of the vessel (202) is in the range of 60-80% RH.

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein an atmospheric reactive gas stream (26, 38, 120, 620) is generated as the reactive gas stream (26, 38, 120, 620).

3. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein an organic reactant or hydrogen peroxide is added to the reactive gas stream (26, 38, 120, 620).

4. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the gas permeable portion (204) of the container (202) is at least partially formed from a nonwoven fabric.

5. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the container (202) is substantially impermeable or impermeable to liquid water, at least from the outside.

6. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the container (202) includes a molding (206) for containing the article (210) and a lid (212) of a gas permeable material.

7. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the container (202) includes a containment space (208) having a gas atmosphere (213) within which the item (210) is disposed.

8. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the items (210) packaged in the container (202) are pre-wetted and / or the gas atmosphere (213) in the receiving space (208) of the container (202) in which the items (210) are placed has a relative humidity of at least 60% RH measured at 20° C.

9. 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the article (210) is a medicine, a medical product, or a protective equipment.

10. An apparatus (100, 300, 600) for sterilizing packaged items (200), comprising: - has a processing area (103, 303, 603), - having a transport system (114, 314, 614) configured to transport the packaged articles (200) through said processing area (103, 303, 603), - a plasma source (2, 32, 118, 318, 618) configured to generate a reactive gas flow (26, 38, 120, 620) at a pressure in the range of ±500 mbar based on the ambient atmospheric pressure, said plasma source (2, 32, 118, 318, 618) configured to generate said reactive gas flow (26, 38, 120, 620) by high frequency arc-like discharge between electrodes in a gas flow, - a water vapor supply device adapted to add water vapor to said reactive gas flow (26, 38, 120, 620), - said plasma source (2, 32, 118, 318, 618) and said processing area (103, 303, 603) are arranged relative to each other such that during operation, said reactive gas flow (26, 38, 120, 620) generated by said plasma source (2, 32, 118, 318, 618) reaches said processing area (103, 303, 603); said water vapor supply device is configured to add water vapor to said reactive gas stream in an amount such that the relative humidity of said reactive gas stream in said treatment area is in the range of 60-95% RH.

11. 11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the apparatus (100, 300, 600) comprises a processing chamber (104, 304, 642) including the processing area (103, 303, 603) with an inlet (106, 306, 644) and an outlet (108, 308, 646), and the transport system (114, 314, 614) is adapted to transport packaged articles (200) through the processing chamber (104, 304, 604) from the inlet (106, 306, 644) to the outlet (108, 308, 646).

12. 12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the treatment chamber (104, 304, 604) and the conveying system (114, 314, 614) are adapted such that the residence time in the treatment chamber (104, 304, 642) of a packaged item (200) conveyed through the treatment chamber (104, 304, 642) by the conveying system (114, 314, 614) is at least 5 minutes.

13. 12. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that an airlock (110, 310; 112, 312) is arranged upstream of the inlet (106, 306, 644) of the treatment chamber (104, 304, 642) and / or downstream of the outlet (108, 308, 646) of the treatment chamber (104, 304, 642), the airlock (110, 310; 112, 312) having a suction device (130) configured to suction gas from the airlock (110, 310; 112, 312).

14. 11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the apparatus (100, 300, 600) comprises a gas guide surface (632) arranged opposite a section (617) of the conveying system (114, 314, 614), and the plasma source (2, 32, 118, 318, 618) is arranged such that the reactive gas flow (26, 38, 120, 620) generated during operation penetrates into a region (636) between the gas guide surface (632) and packaged articles (200) conveyed through the section (617) of the conveying system (114, 314, 614).

15. Use of a device (100, 300, 400, 450, 500, 550) according to any one of claims 10 to 14 for disinfecting packaged items (200).

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