From research to application: Introducing a plasma sterilization prototype

Summary form only given. Plasma sterilization is known to be a promising alternative to common sterilization methods. Although lots of effort has been taken to investigate low-pressure plasma sterilization systems, only little effort has been taken to bring plasma sterilization to market. In this contribution we will present a plasma sterilization prototype for use in medical practice. The prototype is a further development of an experimental model. The experimental model was investigated and characterized with absolutely calibrated optical emission spectroscopy among other, in order to obtain the plasma parameters Te and ne, as well as particle fluxes and UV doses for different discharge parameters, such as different process gases and mixtures, and treatment times. In order to improve the plasma sterilization process, a detailed knowledge of the sterilization mechanisms is indispensible. Hence, the impact of plasma was investigated on a macromolecular level. Therefore, the model proteins BSA and AhpF were treated with different process gases and mixtures, namely hydrogen, oxygen, and a mixture of both, as well as different treatment times. Before and after treatment, the samples were investigated with gel electrophoresis. The results obtained with gel electrophoresis help us to understand and to optimize the sterilization process, particularly with regard to process gas and treatment time that should be applied. As a proof of concept sterilization tests were performed with spores of Geobacillus stearothermophilus on glass slides. The glass slides were contaminated with 106 spores. Full spore inactivation could be achieved within 60 s of plasma treatment. Furthermore, 3D objects were tested with similar results.