Solid-State Power Systems for Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Processing

Pulsed electric field (PEF) processing disinfects liquid foods and water. The process kills pathogenic cells by rupturing their cell membranes with short, high voltage pulses. PEF processing can also improve the performance of industrial processes such as the removal of water from sludge, or the extraction of sugars and starches from plants, because the ruptured cells release their intracellular liquids more easily into their surroundings. Though PEF systems are based on conventional pulsed power technology, they present a very different set of challenges in meeting the requirements of specific biological applications. For example, while most pulsed power specifications are based on voltage, current, and power requirements, PEF systems typically start with a desired field strength, flow rate, and range of fluid conductivities. Translating these parameters into a pulsed power system design can be a challenging process. In this paper, DTI will discuss the interrelationships between pulsed power and PEF processing, and present examples of system designs and configurations.