An investigation into the biocidal effect of high voltage AC/DC atmospheric corona discharges on bacteria, yeasts, fungi and algae

A newly developed, low cost plasma system that works at atmospheric pressure and operates with both DC or AC high voltage power supplies was presented. This system was tested for its biocidal effect on a wide range of micro-organisms in water. Optimal killing parameters such as time, temperature and AC and DC high voltage power levels were tested for bacteria (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans, Bacillus subtilis), yeast (Candida albicans), fungi (Aspergillus niger) and green algae. Results show this system to have a very efficient biocidal effect on most bacteria, algae and fungi in water.