Improved sterilization-solidification method for pathogenic medical waste disposal

Abstract

The present invention discloses an improved method for effective solidification of biomedical waste, which is capable of simultaneously treating and sterilizing solid and fluid samples. The method includes adding the waste sample to an alkaline aqueous solution, followed by adding solid materials of defined volumetric and / or mass composition to result in instant solidification and >99.9% microbial kill, and an integrated sterilization device 10 for the treatment of biomedical waste.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an improved method for effective solidification of biomedical waste that is capable of simultaneously treating and sterilizing solid and fluid samples. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method for sterilizing biomedical waste that includes adding a waste sample to an alkaline aqueous solution, followed by adding a solid material of a defined volumetric and / or mass composition to result in instant solidification and >99.9% microbial kill. More particularly, the present invention relates to a sterilization apparatus for the treatment of biomedical waste. [Background technology]

[0002] Mismanagement of infectious waste, e.g., biomedical test samples, can result in the transmission of microorganisms / toxins / viruses, furthering the spread of epidemics and infectious diseases. According to a position statement by WHO (2000), improper management of medical waste, e.g., infected hypodermic needles and syringes, has caused infections related to Hepatitis B (21 million cases), Hepatitis C (2 million cases), and HIV (26,000 cases) worldwide. The following statement quoted from WHO undermines the importance and necessity of proper medical waste management: "Poor management of medical waste potentially exposes health-care workers, waste handlers, patients, and the community at large to infection, toxic effects, and injury, and risks contaminating the environment. It is important that all medical waste materials are segregated at the point of generation, properly treated, and safely disposed of" (reproduced from http: / / www.who.int / topics / medical_waste / en / ).

[0003] Adding flocculants to liquid waste reduces the risk of spills and aerosolization. Solid waste, such as cotton, sharps, and tissue paper, can also spread infection, and currently used simple adsorbents or hypochlorites cannot always treat such waste. If the flocculant / gelling agent contains a disinfectant, it becomes possible to dispose of the waste as unregulated medical waste, which is less expensive than red-bagging. Separation, transportation, and incineration of this disinfected medical waste is easier and safer, reducing medical waste disposal costs for medical institutions.

[0004] Several strategies are employed to manage liquid biomedical waste, including, but not limited to, sewage treatment, chemical treatment using 1% sodium hypochlorite solution, 10-14 g of bleach powder per liter of water, 70% ethanol, 4% formaldehyde, 70% isopropyl alcohol, 25% iodine, or 6% hydrogen peroxide with a minimum contact time of 30 minutes, solidification of liquid waste using dry highly absorbent polymers containing disinfectants or sanitizers such as chlorine or glutaraldehyde, and closed disposal systems. See the article "Liquid biomedical waste management: An emerging concern for physicians", Biswal S, Muller J Med Sci Res 2013, 4, pp. 99-106, which discusses that media containing high microbial loads or rich protein content require stringent sterilization procedures, with inactivation achieved using a 1:10 dilution of 5.23% sodium hypochlorite in a secure container for a minimum of 8 hours, followed by disposal into the sanitary sewer, followed by flushing with copious amounts of cold water for at least 10 minutes.

[0005] Solidification systems (highly adsorbent) are believed to be advantageous over other methods for the treatment and safer disposal of biomedical fluid waste. Highly adsorbent polymers are generally prepared by polymerizing unsaturated carboxylic acids or their derivatives, including, but not limited to, acrylic acid or its metal / ammonium salts and alkyl acrylates, using internal crosslinkers such as oligofunctional monomers, including, but not limited to, bisacrylamide, triacrylate, dimethacrylate, or triallylamine.

[0006] Several patents have inspired the development of such solidification systems, see U.S. Patent No. 7,291,674 B2 for a surface cross-linked highly adsorbent polymer with good liquid retention, permeability, and mechanical strength based on an adsorbent structure.

[0007] See U.S. Patent No. 8,450,389 B1 for one or more surface-crosslinked highly adsorbent particles in combination with a plurality of second particles for liquid solidification with reduced gel mass and a method for solidifying liquid medical waste.

[0008] See U.S. Patent No. 9,533,081 B1 for another portable wound treatment system including a container, wound dressing, and packet, which includes a similar liquid solidification system containing a plurality of surface-crosslinked highly absorbent particles to reduce gel clumps.

[0009] See U.S. Pat. No. 5,391,351 A for a bodily waste fluid solidification device comprising a hydrophilic xerogel of partially hydrolyzed poly(vinyl acetate), cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol), cross-linked hydroxyalkyl acrylate and cross-linked hydroxyalkyl methacrylate, polymers and copolymers of ethylene oxide, and polymers and copolymers of acrylamide.

[0010] See U.S. Pat. No. 6,797,857 B2 for a solidification agent for solidification of large volumes of liquids of known density, which comprises three adsorbents of varying density, thereby achieving controlled stabilization of the flowable material throughout its entire volume.

[0011] See U.S. Pat. No. 5,424,265A for a capsule that adsorbs liquid waste with a powdered adsorbent material disposed within the capsule, the capsule body being water-soluble and providing adsorption of liquid waste located within a suction canister.

[0012] See U.S. Patent No. 9,102,806 B2 for a particulate highly adsorbent polymer capable of adsorbing water, aqueous liquids, and blood, and a method for producing the highly adsorbent polymer. The highly adsorbent is comprised of 1-10 wt % of any class of thermoplastic polymer selected from polyolefins, polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, ethylene-acrylic acid copolymers, styrene copolymers, ethylene-alkyl methacrylate copolymers, polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, polyamides, polyesters, blends thereof, or copolymers thereof, and the surface is treated with a neutralized polyvalent metal salt solution having a pH value similar to that of human skin.

[0013] See U.S. Pat. No. 8,403,904 B2 for highly adsorbent polymers containing an internal crosslinker composed of a silane derivative having at least one vinyl or one allyl group bonded to a silicon atom and at least one Si—O bond, with high centrifuge retention capacity.

[0014] Highly adsorbent polymers, their preparation methods, and applications in liquid solidification have been described in several patents, namely EP 2739660, US 20130310251, EP 0273141, US 8476189B1, JP 5527916, US 5578318A, DE 69815670T2, and US 8821363B1.

[0015] Solid waste, including but not limited to used cotton, tissue paper, syringes, and needles, is generally sterilized using approved disinfectants and / or sanitizers and then incinerated or recycled. Burial or landfilling, disposal in cemented pits, immobilization using plastic foam, sand, cement, or clay, low-, medium-, or high-temperature combustion, controlled incineration, steam autoclaving, rotary kilns, microwave treatment, chemical treatment, shredding, melting, etc., are common practices for disposing of solid waste (see WHO at www.who.int / and Medical Waste Management, International Committee of the Red Cross at www.icrc.org / ). Bleach or 1-10% solutions of hypochlorite, sodium hydroxide, or other chemical disinfectants are used to sterilize biomedical waste. Heat, alkaline extinguishing agents, and microwaves are also used for this purpose.

[0016] Acrylate-based solidifiers are inexpensive and widely available, but they have drawbacks. They generally require 10 to 15 minutes for complete gelation and are not easily recycled. They are not biodegradable, and some acrylates have been shown to be flammable. Studies have shown that some acrylates and their raw materials may be carcinogenic. The production of acrylics has both health and environmental impacts. Some chemicals used in production and chemical waste from acrylic plants are toxic. Hypochlorite (bleach) is not always effective on wastes with high organic content, such as blood. Furthermore, no sterilization systems capable of simultaneously treating, immobilizing, and sterilizing both liquid and solid medical waste have been found in the literature.

[0017] Abbreviations used WHO: World Health Organization min.:minutes wt%: mass percent NaOH: Sodium hydroxide mg: milligram mL: milliliter kg: kilogram [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0018] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 7,291,674 B2 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 8450389B1 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 9533081B1 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 5,391,351A [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 6,797,857 B2 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 5,424,265A [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent No. 9102806B2 [Patent Document 8] U.S. Patent No. 8403904B2 [Patent Document 9] European Patent No. 2739660 [Patent Document 10] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20130310251 [Patent Document 11] European Patent No. 0273141 [Patent Document 12] U.S. Patent No. 8476189B1 [Patent Document 13] Japanese Patent No. 5527916 [Patent Document 14] U.S. Patent No. 5,578,318A [Patent Document 15] German Patent No. 69815670T2 [Patent Document 16] U.S. Patent No. 8,821,363 B1 [Non-patent literature]

[0019] [Non-Patent Document 1] http: / / www.who.int / topics / medical_waste / en / [Non-patent document 2] "Liquid biomedical waste management: An emerging concern for physicians", Biswal S, Muller J Med Sci Res2013, 4, pp. 99-106 [Non-patent document 3] WHO @ www.who.int / [Non-patent document 4] Medical Waste Management, International Committee of the Red Cross @ www.icrc.org / [Non-patent document 5] Kirkham, J.; et al., “Self-assembling peptide scaffolds promote enamel remineralization,” J. Dental Res. 2007, 56, pp. 426-430. [Non-patent document 6] Duffo, GS; et al., "Development of an artificial saliva solution for studying the corrosion behavior of dental alloys," Corrosion 2004, 60, pp. 594-602. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0020] The primary objective of the present invention relates to the development of an effective solidification system that is capable of simultaneously processing and sterilizing solid and fluid samples.

[0021] Another object is to provide a method for preparing the collected solid and fluid waste for disposal in a container or collection vessel at the point of need for treatment.

[0022] A third objective is to provide an easy, safe, cost-effective method for reducing the risk of spills and occupational exposure, thereby providing a method for managing biomedical waste, including both solid and liquid waste.

[0023] Yet another object is to develop a method for preparing solid and fluid waste for disposal by destroying, sterilizing or inactivating pathogens in the waste for preparation for disposal, including processing and transport of the sample after solidification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0024] In view of the above technical background, the present invention discloses an improved method for sterilization and solidification of biomedical waste, which involves the use of a solidification agent solid powder and a basifying solution, which when mixed with a solid or fluid waste sample of defined volumetric and / or mass composition, results in instant solidification and up to 100% microbial kill.

[0025] The present invention contemplates providing a sterilization system for preparing solid and fluid waste collected in collection containers for disposal in combination with the destruction, sterilization, or inactivation of microorganisms, particularly pathogens including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other toxins, thereby making disposal, including processing, handling, and transportation, easier, safer, and more cost-effective.

[0026] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for creating a spill-proof environment for fluid medical waste, especially salt, sugar, saliva, urine, blood, hospital chemicals, etc., which minimizes the risks associated with spills and occupational exposure, and also minimizes the risks associated with the processing of solid medical waste, especially cotton, tissues, swabs, needles, etc., which minimizes the risks associated with the accumulation of untreated and infectious samples, or imparts >99.9% microbial kill to a mixture of solid and liquid waste.

[0027] In another embodiment, the present invention discloses a method for complete sterilization of fluid or solid medical waste, comprising the addition of a pH-adjusted aqueous base or alkali solution followed by the addition of one or more of the above powders of oxide-based solid powders for the instant solidification of solid or fluid samples containing high concentrations of proteins, microbial cultures, salts, or metal ions.

[0028] In its final objective, the present invention contemplates the creation of an integrated sample collection-sterilization-solidification device of any required volume capable of collecting solid or liquid samples and immobilizing them as required for prior pathogen sterilization in preparation for their disposal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated salt (NaCl) solutions upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 60-120 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated salt solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated salt solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 2] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated sugar (sucrose) solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 60-120 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated sugar solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated sugar solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 3] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involving mixtures of saturated salt (NaCl) solution and saturated sugar (sucrose) solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 60-120 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 0.5 mL of saturated salt solution + 0.5 mL of saturated sugar solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + saturated salt solution + 1 mL of sugar solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 4]Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in 6% BSA solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 60-120 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 6% BSA solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of 6% BSA solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 5] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involving a mixture of saturated salt (NaCl) solution and 6% BSA solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 60-120 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 0.5 mL of saturated salt solution + 0.5 mL of 6% BSA solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + saturated salt solution + 1 mL of 6% BSA solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 6] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated potassium dichromate solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 60-120 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 7] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involving iodine solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 60-120 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of iodine solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of iodine solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 8] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial blood upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 60-120 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of artificial blood, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial blood, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. 6% BSA, which resulted in higher protein content and heme, was replaced with an iron(II) complex. [Figure 9]Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial urine upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial urine, and (c) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 10] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial saliva upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial saliva, and (c) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 11] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated salt (NaCl) solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated salt solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated salt solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 12] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated sugar (sucrose) solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated sugar solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated sugar solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 13] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in 6% BSA solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 6% BSA solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of 6% BSA solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 14] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated potassium dichromate solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 15]Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involving iodine solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of iodine solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of iodine solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 16] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial blood upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of artificial blood, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial blood, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. 6% BSA, which resulted in higher protein content and heme, was replaced with an iron(II) complex. [Figure 17] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial urine upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial urine, and (c) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 18] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial saliva upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 100-200 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial saliva, and (c) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 19] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated salt (NaCl) solutions upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated salt solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated salt solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 20] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated sugar (sucrose) solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated sugar solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated sugar solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 21]Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in 6% BSA solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 6% BSA solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of 6% BSA solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 22] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated potassium dichromate solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 23] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involving iodine solution upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of iodine solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of iodine solution, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 24] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial blood upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of artificial blood, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial blood, and (d) after addition of silica gel for solidification. 6% BSA, which resulted in higher protein content and heme, was replaced with an iron(II) complex. [Figure 25] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial urine upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial urine, and (c) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 26] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in artificial saliva upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade, 230-400 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of artificial saliva, and (c) after addition of silica gel for solidification. [Figure 27]Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in saturated potassium dichromate solution upon addition of alumina (chromatographic grade, basic, 60-325 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water, (b) 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, and (d) after addition of alumina for solidification. [Figure 28] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process associated with saturated potassium dichromate solution upon addition of titania (mixture of anatase and rutile): (a) 1 mL of 50% aqueous NaOH, (b) 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, (c) 1 mL of 50% aqueous NaOH + 1 mL of saturated potassium dichromate solution, and (d) after addition of titania for solidification. [Figure 29] FIG. 1 illustrates the solidification process involving a piece of cotton upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + piece of cotton, and after addition of silica gel for solidification: (b) 60-120 mesh, (c) 100-200 mesh, and (d) 230-300 mesh. [Figure 30] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involving tissue paper upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 tissue paper, and after addition of silica gel for solidification: (b) 60-120 mesh, (c) 100-200 mesh, and (d) 230-300 mesh. [Figure 31] Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involving the needle upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + needle, and after addition of silica gel for solidification: (b) 60-120 mesh, (c) 100-200 mesh, and (d) 230-300 mesh. [Figure 32] FIG. 1 illustrates the solidification process involving a solid swab upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + swab, and after addition of silica gel for solidification: (b) 60-120 mesh, (c) 100-200 mesh, and (d) 230-300 mesh. [Figure 33]Figure 1 illustrates the solidification process involving tissue paper upon addition of alumina (chromatography grade, basic, 60-325 mesh): (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 tissue paper, and (b) after addition of alumina for solidification. [Figure 34] FIG. 1 illustrates the solidification process involved in tissue paper upon titania (mixture of anatase and rutile) addition: (a) 1 mL of 50% NaOH water + 1 tissue paper, and (b) after the addition of titania for solidification. [Figure 35] FIG. 1 illustrates photographs of Petri dishes incubated with a sample taken as a control (A, D), a sample after addition of aqueous NaOH (B, E), and after solidification (C, F) of a bacterial culture containing aqueous NaOH and (A-C) Escherichia coli (E. coli) and (D-F) Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), confirming complete sterilization in a quantitative experiment. [Figure 36] A diagram illustrating the large-scale solidification process involving a mixture of solid and liquid wastes upon addition of silica gel (chromatography grade): (a) a mixture of solid and liquid wastes in 50% NaOH water and (b) after addition of silica gel (60-120 mesh) for solidification. [Figure 37] FIG. 1 illustrates a prototype of an integrated sample collection-sterilization-solidification-disposal device for liquid samples, consisting of (a) three collection vials placed one on top of the other, (b) the top vial containing solid material A (silica is shown as an example), a middle vial containing the collected sample, and a bottom vial pre-filled with the required amount of solution B. Once the collected sample is tested, the remaining sample can be (c) first sterilized by breaking the connection between the middle and bottom compartments, allowing the sample to mix with the solution, and then (d) solidified by adding material A by breaking the connection between the top and middle compartments. [Figure 38]FIG. 1 illustrates a prototype of an integrated sample collection-sterilization-solidification-disposal device for solid samples, consisting of (a) two collection vials placed one on top of the other, (b) the upper vial containing solid material A (silica is shown as an example) and the lower vial pre-filled with the required amount of solution B. Waste samples can be (c) first sterilized by mixing the sample with solution B, and then (d) solidified by adding material A by breaking the connection between the two compartments. [Figure 39] FIG. 38 illustrates the design of a prototype of the integrated sample retrieval-sterilization-solidification-disposal device for liquid samples shown in FIG. 37. [Figure 40] FIG. 39 illustrates the design of a prototype of the integrated sample retrieval-sterilization-solidification-disposal device for solid samples shown in FIG. 38. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] This section describes the present invention in detail in preferred embodiments. The accompanying description / drawings are for the purpose of describing and understanding the preferred embodiments in detail, but are not intended to limit the present invention and / or its scope.

[0031] Through extensive research, the inventors of the present invention have previously found that adding polyamino acids as an aqueous solution to a stable nanomaterial sol in water results in instant coagulation, and the coagulation process can be further controlled to achieve gelation or solidification under carefully controlled conditions. However, the use of sols and polyamino acids is not very effective for long-term treatment and settling of biomedical waste, and there is an urgent need to minimize the amount of water used and reduce the number of chemical components. The present invention provides an improved method for sterilization and solidification of pathogenic biomedical waste with a reduced number of chemical components and minimal use of water.

[0032] A primary embodiment of the present subject matter provides an improved sterilization-solidification method for preparing solid and fluid waste collected in collection containers at the point of care for disposal, combined with the destruction, sterilization, or inactivation of microorganisms, particularly pathogens including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other toxins, so that disposal, including processing, handling, and transportation, is believed to be easier, safer, and more cost-effective. Solidification reduces the risk of leakage and aerosolization, while complete pathogen sterilization allows for disposal of the waste as unregulated medical waste, which is less expensive than red-bagging. Separation, transportation, and incineration of the sterilized medical waste is easier and safer, reducing medical waste disposal costs for healthcare facilities.

[0033] Another embodiment of the invention comprises adding an oxide of a transition metal, especially titanium, aluminum, silicon, or zinc, with or without a binder, to an aqueous solution containing a biomedical entity to be sterilized that has been basified to alkaline pH using base B, the concentration of B being 0.1-90% w / v in water, more preferably >40% w / v in water, and solid A being added at a minimum of 1% (w / v) and at a maximum of 500% (w / v) of the total water volume, to result in instantaneous sterilization followed by instantaneous solidification.

[0034] The present invention proposes a self-sterilizing solidification method for the treatment and disposal of biomedical waste. The treatment method disclosed herein involves a solidification agent, inter alia, silica powder with or without a binder, chromatography-grade silica gel powder with a mesh size of 60-400, alumina powder with or without a binder, chromatography-grade alumina powder with a mesh size of 60-200, titania powder with or without a binder, pigment-grade titania in its rutile or anatase form, or a mixture of the rutile and anatase forms, or zinc oxide powder with or without a binder, technical-grade zinc oxide in its powder form having a particle size of <500 μm, which, when mixed with a solid or fluid waste sample of a defined volumetric and / or mass composition that has been sterilized by addition to an alkaline solution of a base, results in instant solidification and up to 100% microbial kill.

[0035] In specific embodiments, the present invention relates to a process that provides a spill-proof environment for fluid medical waste, particularly salt, sugar, saliva, urine, blood, hospital chemicals, etc., minimizing the risks associated with spills and occupational exposure, and further minimizing the risks associated with the disposal of solid medical waste, particularly cotton, tissues, swabs, needles, etc., minimizing the risks associated with the accumulation of raw and infectious samples, or imparting >99.9% microbial disinfection to a mixture of solid and liquid waste.

[0036] Another aspect of the present invention discloses the volumetric composition of pH-adjusted aqueous base or alkali solutions for complete sterilization of fluid or solid medical waste, followed by the addition of one or more of the above powders, oxide-based solid powders, for instantaneous solidification of solid or fluid samples containing high concentrations of proteins, microbial cultures, salts, or metal ions.

[0037] Another aspect of the present invention is directed to creating an integrated sample collection-sterilization-solidification device of any required volume capable of collecting solid or liquid samples and, if desired, flocculating / gelling / solidifying the samples and sterilizing them in preparation for their disposal and immobilizing the solid or liquid samples as required for prior pathogen sterilization in preparation for their disposal.

[0038] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method for sterilization followed by solidification using a sterilization-solidification and disposal system, comprising the step of adding a sterilizing composition comprising solid powders of solidifying agent A and basifying agent B, wherein the solid powder from solidifying agent A is added to an aqueous solution containing biomedical waste to be sterilized, the aqueous solution containing an oxide-based powder, particularly an oxide of silicon, titanium, zinc, or aluminum, basified to an alkaline pH in the range of 9 to 14 using basifying agent B, the solid powder from solidifying agent A being added at a minimum of 1% (w / v) and at a maximum of 500% (w / v) of the total water volume, and the concentration of basifying agent B is 1 to 90% w / v in water, more preferably >40% w / v in water.

[0039] In yet another embodiment, the solid powder of solidifying agent A is silica powder with or without a binder, chromatography grade silica gel powder with a mesh size of 60-400, alumina powder with or without a binder, chromatography grade alumina powder with a mesh size of 60-400, titania powder with or without a binder, pigment grade titania in its rutile or anatase form, or a mixture of the rutile and anatase forms, or zinc oxide powder with or without a binder, technical grade zinc oxide having a particle size of <500 μm in its powder form.

[0040] Furthermore, the basifying agent B is selected from the group consisting of alkali metal or alkaline earth metal hydroxides, basic salts of metal and organic cations, selected from the group consisting of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, which results in a final pH in the range of 9 to 14 in the aqueous solution.

[0041] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides: (a) preparing an aqueous solution of basifying agent B in water; (b) adding biomedical waste to be sterilized to the aqueous solution prepared in step (a); (c) mixing the mixture obtained in step (b) uniformly and / or allowing it to stand for 10 to 30 minutes; and (d) adding solid powder of solidifying agent A, followed by mixing and / or allowing to stand, wherein the resulting mixture is characterized as being solidified or gelled depending on the amounts of solidifying agent A, basifying agent B, and biomedical waste. The present invention relates to a method for sterilization-solidification, comprising:

[0042] Furthermore, the amount of biomedical waste added is less than 1:1000 (v / v) of the liquid waste and any immersible amount of solid waste, or a mixture thereof, to basifying agent solution B. Solid powder of solidifying agent A is added in a minimum of 1% (w / v) and a maximum of 500% (w / v) of the total water volume in the mixture.

[0043] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention relates to a method for sterilization-solidification, wherein the biomedical waste used in step (b) is selected from the group consisting of salts, sugars, metal salts and complexes, aqueous waste, hospital chemicals such as iodine, saliva, urine, blood, or any solid sample, especially cotton, tissue paper, needles, syringes, or swabs, alone or in combination, and the sterilization is carried out by high pH of the basifying agent solution B.

[0044] Furthermore, the exothermic reaction between the solid powder of solidifying agent A and the alkaline waste mixture provides a second heat mechanism for pathogen sterilization, with the exothermic reaction occurring in the range of 50-120°C.

[0045] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides a sterilization-solidification and disposal system filled with a sterilizing composition, the system comprising: (a) A system of upper containers or compartments (1, Fig. 39); (b) a system of intermediate containers or compartments (2, Fig. 39); (c) a system of lower containers or compartments (3, Fig. 39); (d) a screw stopper connected to the upper container or compartment system (4, Fig. 39); (e) Two breakable screw plugs (5, Fig. 39), one screw plug connected between the upper container or compartment system and the intermediate container or compartment system, and the other screw plug connected between the intermediate container or compartment system and the lower container or compartment system. The present invention provides a sterilization-solidification and disposal system comprising:

[0046] Furthermore, the upper container or compartment system is filled with a solid powder of solidifying agent A in the sterilization-solidification and disposal system. The middle container or compartment system is filled with biomedical waste. The lower container or compartment system is filled with an aqueous solution of basifying agent B. Furthermore, the biomedical waste may be solid or liquid waste or a mixture thereof.

[0047] In yet another embodiment, the present invention provides: a) a solid powder of solidifier A, in which an oxide-based powder, in particular an oxide of silicon, titanium, zinc, or aluminum, is added as a solid powder from solidifier A; a solid powder of solidifier A, in which the solid powder of solidifier A is added in a minimum of 1% (w / v) and a maximum of 500% (w / v) of the total volume of water; and b) a basifying agent B, wherein the concentration of the basifying agent B is 1-90% w / v in water, more preferably >40% w / v in water; A disinfecting composition comprising: A sterilizing composition is provided in which a solid powder of a solidifying agent A is added to an aqueous solution containing biomedical waste to be sterilized, the biomedical waste having been basified to an alkaline pH in the range of 9 to 14 using a basifying agent B. [Example]

[0048] The following examples are given by way of illustration and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0049] Example 1: Solidification of aqueous waste using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was made in water. Aqueous waste was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0050] Example 2: Solidification of concentrated salt solutions using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. A saturated aqueous solution of sodium chloride was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0051] Example 3: Solidification of concentrated sugar solution using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. A saturated aqueous solution of sucrose was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0052] Example 4: Solidification of a mixture of concentrated salt solution and concentrated sugar solution using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. A mixture of saturated aqueous solutions of sodium chloride and sucrose was added (1:1) to the above solution and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0053] Example 5: Solidification of protein-containing aqueous waste using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was made in water. A 6% aqueous solution of BSA was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica powder was added to effect instant solidification. The full form of BSA is bovine serum albumin.

[0054] Example 6: Solidification of concentrated salt solutions containing proteins using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. A saturated aqueous solution of sodium chloride containing 6% BSA was added (1:1) to the above solution and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0055] Example 7: Solidification of aqueous solutions containing metal ions and strong oxidizing agents using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. A saturated aqueous solution of potassium dichromate was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0056] Example 8: Solidification of Hospital Chemical-Containing Aqueous Waste Using Silica Gel Powder (60-120 Mesh, 100-200 Mesh, or 230-400 Mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. A concentrated aqueous solution of iodine was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0057] Example 9: Solidification of aqueous waste using alumina powder (60-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. The aqueous waste materials listed in Examples 1-8 above were added to the solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid alumina powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0058] Example 10: Solidification of aqueous waste using titania powder (mixture of anatase and rutile) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. The aqueous waste materials listed in Examples 1-8 above were added (1:1) to the solution and mixed thoroughly. Solid titania powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0059] Example 11: Solidification of aqueous waste using zinc oxide powder (particle size <500 μm) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. The aqueous waste materials listed in Examples 1-8 above were added (1:1) to the solution and mixed thoroughly. Solid zinc oxide powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0060] Example 12: Preparation of artificial saliva Artificial saliva was prepared in two steps: (i) by mixing 1.5 mM Ca(NO), 0.90 mM KHPO, 130 mM KCl, and 60 mM Tris buffer at pH 7.4 (Kirkham, J. et al., "Self-assembling peptide scaffolds promote enamel remineralization," J. Dental Res. 2007, 56, pp. 426-430), and (ii) mixing sodium chloride (0.06 g), potassium chloride (0.072 g), calcium chloride dihydrate (0.022 g), potassium dihydrogen phosphate (0.068 g), disodium hydrogen phosphate dodecahydrate (0.086 g), potassium thiocyanate (0.006 g), sodium bicarbonate (0.15 g), and citric acid (0.003 g) in 100 mL of distilled water at a pH of 6.5 (see Duffo, G.S.; et al., "Development of an artificial saliva solution for studying the corrosion behavior of dental alloys," Corrosion 2004, 60, pp. 594-602).

[0061] Example 13: Solidification of artificial saliva using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Artificial saliva was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica gel powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0062] Example 14: Solidification of artificial saliva using alumina powder (60-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Artificial saliva was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid alumina powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0063] Example 15: Solidification of artificial saliva using titania powder (mixture of anatase and rutile) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Artificial saliva was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid titania powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0064] Example 16: Solidification of artificial saliva using zinc oxide powder (particle size <500 μm) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Artificial saliva was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid zinc oxide powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0065] Example 17: Preparation of artificial urine Urea (1.82 g) was added to 75 mL of distilled water in a container and thoroughly mixed to dissolve. Sodium chloride (0.75 g), potassium chloride (0.45 g), and sodium phosphate (0.48 g) were then added to the mixture and thoroughly mixed until dissolved. The pH was adjusted to between 5 and 7. Creatinine (200 mg) and albumin powder (5 mg) were added and gently mixed. A few mg of glucose was added to the resulting artificial urine before each experiment.

[0066] Example 18: Solidification of artificial urine using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Synthetic urine was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica gel powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0067] Example 19: Solidification of artificial urine using alumina powder (60-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Synthetic urine was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid alumina powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0068] Example 20: Solidification of artificial urine using titania powder (mixture of anatase and rutile) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Synthetic urine was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid titania powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0069] Example 21: Solidification of artificial urine using zinc oxide powder (particle size <500 μm) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Synthetic urine was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid zinc oxide powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0070] Example 22: Preparation of artificial blood A 6% solution of BSA was prepared in distilled water. A small amount of iron(II) complex was added to mimic heme and provide color. The full form of BSA is bovine serum albumin.

[0071] Example 23: Solidification of artificial blood using silica gel powder (60-120 mesh, 100-200 mesh, or 230-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Artificial blood was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid silica gel powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0072] Example 24: Solidification of artificial blood using alumina powder (60-400 mesh) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Artificial blood was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid alumina powder was added to achieve instant solidification.

[0073] Example 25: Solidification of artificial blood using titania powder (mixture of anatase and rutile) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Artificial blood was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid titania powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0074] Example 26: Solidification of artificial blood using zinc oxide powder (particle size <500 μm) A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water. Artificial blood was added to the above solution (1:1) and mixed thoroughly. Solid zinc oxide powder was added to effect instant solidification.

[0075] Example 27: Immobilization of solid swabs in silica gel (60-400 mesh) powder, alumina (60-400 mesh) powder, titania (mixture of anatase and rutile) powder, or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm) powder. A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water in an 8 mL glass vial, and a piece of swab (4 cm) was immersed in. It was thoroughly mixed, and solid powders of silica gel (60-400 mesh), alumina (60-400 mesh), titania (mixture of anatase and rutile), or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm) were added, resulting in instant solidification.

[0076] Example 28: Immobilization of a syringe needle in silica gel (60-400 mesh) powder, alumina (60-400 mesh) powder, titania (mixture of anatase and rutile) powder, or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm) powder A 50% NaOH solution was prepared in water in an 8 mL glass vial and a needle (4–6 cm) was immersed in. It was thoroughly mixed, and solid powders of silica gel (60–400 mesh), alumina (60–400 mesh), titania (mixture of anatase and rutile), or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm) were added, resulting in instant solidification.

[0077] Example 29: Immobilization of cotton waste in silica gel (60-400 mesh) powder, alumina (60-400 mesh) powder, titania (mixture of anatase and rutile) powder, or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm) powder. A 50% NaOH solution was made in water in a glass vial and a piece of waste cotton was soaked in. It was thoroughly mixed, and solid powders of silica gel (60-400 mesh), alumina (60-400 mesh), titania (mixture of anatase and rutile), or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm) were added, resulting in instant solidification.

[0078] Example 30: Immobilization of tissue paper in silica gel (60-400 mesh) powder, alumina (60-400 mesh) powder, titania (mixture of anatase and rutile) powder, or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm) powder A 50% NaOH solution was made in water in a glass vial, and a piece of tissue paper was immersed in it. It was thoroughly mixed, and solid powders of silica gel (60-400 mesh), alumina (60-400 mesh), titania (mixture of anatase and rutile), or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm) were added, resulting in instant solidification.

[0079] Example 31: Immobilization of Large-Scale Mixed Waste in Silica Gel (60-400 Mesh) Powder, Alumina (60-400 Mesh) Powder, Titania (Mixture of Anatase and Rutile) Powder, or Zinc Oxide (Particle Size <500 μm) Powder A 50% NaOH solution was made in water in a glass beaker and a mixture of various waste materials (solid and liquid - syringes, needles, swabs, cotton, tissues, artificial urine, artificial blood, and artificial saliva, iodine, potassium dichromate, salt, sugar, etc.) was added. It was thoroughly mixed and a solid powder of silica gel (60-400 mesh) was added, resulting in instant solidification.

[0080] Example 32: Antibacterial Studies Cultures of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were prepared in Luria-Bertani (LB) medium, with colony-forming units (cfu) of approximately 1–3 × 10 for E. coli or S. aureus.6 Every milliliter (pre-standardized based on optical density at 600 nm) was removed for testing at the 18-hour old stage. One mL of a 50% aqueous solution of base B was added to 1 mL of bacterial broth (spiking solution) and mixed by swirling the bottle. Samples were removed for analysis at regular time intervals. Solid powder of silica gel (60-120 mesh) was added to achieve instant solidification. Samples were further removed for analysis at regular time intervals. All samples were removed as 10x dilutions in sterile saline, and 100 μL of the diluted solution was plated on LB agar plates and incubated overnight at 37°C. In parallel, the original bacterial suspension was serially diluted in sterile saline, and 100 μL of the appropriate dilutions were plated on LB agar plates and incubated as test samples, serving as controls. The next day, colonies were counted based on the applied dilution, and the number of CFU / mL of the original bacterial suspension added to the sol and the CFU in the gelling disinfectant were calculated. The efficacy was calculated as follows: [(number of CFU in bacterial suspension - number of CFU in gelling disinfectant) / number of CFU in bacterial suspension] × 100 and expressed as %.

[0081] Example 33: Prototype of an Integrated Sample Collection-Sterilization-Disposal Device for Fluid Samples An integrated sample collection, sterilization, and disposal device for fluid samples was prototyped as follows: three plastic collection vials, one placed on top of the other, contained solid powders of silica gel (60–400 mesh), alumina (60–400 mesh), titania (mixture of anatase and rutile), or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm), the middle vial for sample collection, and the lower vial prefilled with the required amount of 50% aqueous sodium hydroxide solution. The design allows the upper compartment to be unscrewed, and the sample can be collected in the middle compartment. Once the collected sample is tested, the remaining sample can be sterilized and solidified by first mixing the sample with an alkaline solution in the lower container by breaking the connection between the middle and lower compartments, and then adding the corresponding solid powder from the upper compartment. Mixing the three fluid mixtures allows for complete pathogen sterilization as demonstrated in Example 32.

[0082] Example 34: Prototype of an integrated sample collection-sterilization-disposal device for solid samples An integrated sample collection, sterilization, and disposal device for solid samples was prototyped as follows: a plastic collection container for solid samples (e.g., cotton waste) was placed on top of another plastic vial, with the upper vial containing silica gel (60-400 mesh), alumina (60-400 mesh), titania (a mixture of anatase and rutile), or zinc oxide (particle size <500 μm), and the lower vial pre-filled with the required amount of a 50% aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide. By design, the upper compartment could be unscrewed, and solid samples could be collected in the lower compartment. Once a sufficient number of solid samples had been collected in the lower container, the samples could be sterilized and solidified by breaking the connection between the two compartments and mixing the alkaline sample with the corresponding solid powder. The mixing and gelation of the solutions allowed for complete pathogen sterilization, as demonstrated in Example 32.

[0083] Advantages of the invention - Inherent antibacterial activity - Minimize water requirements - Instant sterilization and solidification upon mixing - Kills >99.9% of microorganisms within 1 minute - Reduce the risk of spills and occupational exposure - To enable the disposal of waste that is unregulated medical waste. - Applicable to decontamination of both fluid and solid medical waste - Safer, easier and more cost-effective - Suitability for managing any amount of fluid waste - No interference from proteins, metal ions, salts, or other impurities

Claims

1. 1. A method for sterilization and then solidification by a sterilization-solidification and disposal system, comprising the steps of adding a sterilizing composition comprising a solid powder of solidifying agent A and a basifying agent B; an oxide-based powder is added as solid powder from solidifying agent A to an aqueous solution containing biomedical waste that has been basified to an alkaline pH in the range of 9 to 14 using said basifying agent B, said solid powder of solidifying agent A being added at a minimum of 1% (w / v) and a maximum of 500% (w / v) of the total water volume, and said basifying agent B having a concentration of 1 to 90% w / v in water; 1. A method for sterilization followed by solidification by a sterilization-solidification and disposal system comprising:

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the solid powder of solidifying agent A is silica powder with or without a binder, chromatography grade silica gel powder with a mesh size of 60-400, alumina powder with or without a binder, chromatography grade alumina powder with a mesh size of 60-400, titania powder with or without a binder, pigment grade titania in its rutile or anatase form, or a mixture of rutile and anatase forms, or zinc oxide powder with or without a binder, technical grade zinc oxide in its powder form, having a particle size of <500 μm.

3. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the basifying agent B is selected from the group consisting of alkali metal or alkaline earth metal hydroxides, basic salts of metal and organic cations selected from the group consisting of sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, resulting in a final pH in the aqueous solution thereof in the range of 9 to 14.

4. (a) preparing an aqueous solution of basifying agent B in water; (b) adding biomedical waste to the aqueous solution prepared in step (a); (c) mixing the mixture obtained in step (b) uniformly and / or allowing it to stand for 10 to 30 minutes; and (d) adding a solid powder of solidifying agent A, followed by mixing and / or allowing to stand, wherein the resulting mixture is characterized as being solidified or gelled depending on the amounts of the solidifying agent A, the basifying agent B, and the biomedical waste.

4. The method for sterilization-solidification according to claim 1, comprising:

5. 5. The method for sterilization-solidification according to claim 4, wherein the amount of biomedical waste added is less than 1:1000 (v / v) of basifying agent solution B for liquid waste and any immersible amount of solid waste, or a mixture thereof.

6. 5. The method for sterilization-solidification according to claim 4, wherein the solid powder of solidifying agent A is added in the mixture at a minimum of 1% (w / v) and at a maximum of 500% (w / v) of the total water volume.

7. 5. The method for sterilization-solidification according to claim 4, wherein the biomedical waste used in step (b) is selected from the group consisting of salts, sugars, metal salts and complexes, aqueous waste, hospital chemicals, saliva, urine, blood, or any solid sample, or a combination thereof, and sterilization is achieved by the high pH of the basifying agent solution B.

8. 5. The method for sterilization-solidification according to claim 4, wherein an exothermic reaction between the solid powder of the solidification agent A and the alkaline waste mixture provides a second thermal mechanism for pathogen sterilization, and the exothermic reaction is in the range of 50-120°C.

9. 10. A sterilization-solidification and disposal system for use in the method of claim 1, wherein the system is filled with a sterilizing composition comprising a solid powder of solidification agent A and a basifying agent B; The device: (a) A system of upper containers or compartments (1, Fig. 39); (b) a system of intermediate containers or compartments (2, Fig. 39); (c) a system of lower containers or compartments (3, Fig. 39); (d) a screw stopper (4, Fig. 39) connected to the system of said upper containers or compartments; (e) two breakable screw plugs (5, Fig. 39), one screw plug connected between the upper container or compartment system and the intermediate container or compartment system, and another screw plug connected between the intermediate container or compartment system and the lower container or compartment system; A sterilization-solidification and disposal system consisting of:

10. 10. The sterilization-solidification and disposal system of claim 9, wherein the upper container or compartment system is filled with solid powder of solidifying agent A.

11. 10. The sterilization-solidification and disposal system of claim 9, wherein the intermediate container or compartment system is filled with biomedical waste.

12. 10. The sterilization-solidification and disposal system of claim 9, wherein the lower container or compartment system is filled with the aqueous solution of basifying agent B.

13. 13. The sterilization-solidification and disposal system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the biomedical waste is solid or liquid waste or a mixture thereof.

14. a) a solid powder of solidifier A, in which an oxide-based powder is added as a solid powder from solidifier A; the solid powder of solidifier A is added in a minimum of 1% (w / v) and a maximum of 500% (w / v) of the total volume of water; and b) a basifying agent B, wherein the concentration of said basifying agent B is 1-90% w / v in water; 10. A disinfecting composition for use in the method of claim 1, comprising: A disinfecting composition, wherein a solid powder of solidifying agent A is added to an aqueous solution containing biomedical waste that has been basified to an alkaline pH in the range of 9 to 14 using said basifying agent B.

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