Plasma-Generated Reactive Oxygen Sterilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sterilization methods using aqueous hydrogen peroxide or chemicals often leave residues, and there is a need for a method that sustains the sterilization action of reactive oxygen species effectively.
Innovation Solution
A sterilization method utilizing plasma-generated reactive oxygen, produced by alternating current discharge and steam interaction, is used to irradiate a closed space containing objects, ensuring sustained sterilization effects without chemical residues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If aqueous hydrogen peroxide or chemical sterilization is used, then sterilization effect is achieved, but chemical residues remain on surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical sterilization methods with a physical plasma-based method. Plasma generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) through physical processes including electron impact dissociation of oxygen molecules and water vapor, eliminating the need for chemical agents and their associated residues while maintaining effective sterilization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sterilization mechanism from chemical reaction to physical plasma interaction. By controlling plasma parameters such as gas composition (oxygen and water vapor mixture), power density, and exposure time, the system generates sufficient ROS to achieve sterilization without chemical residues
2Object-generated harmful factors
If plasma jet sterilization is used, then chemical residues are eliminated, but sustainability of sterilization action is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-irradiating the container with plasma-generated ROS before placing the object inside. This creates a reservoir of reactive oxygen species in the container environment that continues to exert sterilization effects as the object is introduced, extending the duration of action beyond the brief plasma exposure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves continuity of useful action through the persistent presence of ROS in the container atmosphere. The reactive oxygen species generated by plasma continue to interact with microorganisms on the object surface after the plasma source is removed, maintaining sterilization action over an extended period
Data Source
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AI summary
A sterilization method characterized in that the sterilization method includes carrying out sterilization including allowing an object to be sterilized to stand within a container to which a reactive oxygen is previously irradiated; for example, a sterilization method characterized in that the sterilization method includes irradiating an object to be sterilized comprising a dent portion with a reactive oxygen, stacking an object to be sterilized on top thereof to cover the dent portion, and carrying out sterilization within a formed closed space. The sterilization method of the present invention shows excellent sterilization activity, so that it can be suitably used in, for example, sterilization of containers for foodstuff, bottle caps sealing the openings of the containers, medical devices, foodstuff such as vegetables and meat, and the like.