In March, the Fraunhofer Institute of Process Engineering and Packaging revealed a new method of surface decontamination for plastic packaging. Plasma sterilization is currently being tested by the Institute. So far, it is designed for use on flat objects such as film and lids. However, Fraunhofer anticipates the creation of a more targeted instrument that can be used successfully on 3 dimensional objects like containers.
The cascaded dielectric barrier discharge (CDBD) plasma generator uses an excimer lamp instead of a more traditional dielectric module. An excimer is a short lived, excited molecular compound made up of two similar halves that would not bond under normal conditions. This type of flat UV lamp offers a uniform stream of activated particles. Coupled with a plasma discharge gap, it offers greater efficiency in breaking down contaminants than that provided by previous designs.
UV light and electric impulses are used to create plasma from argon or even from the usual mixture of gases found in the atmosphere. This ionized gas plasma contains many positively and negatively charged particles that are highly reactive. When these ions come into contact with pathogens, they cannibalize the components of the germs in an attempt to stabilize. This activity destroys the cell walls of bacteria, mold, and viruses. Even organisms that are resistant to traditional UV radiation can be eradicated using plasma technology.
CDBD Equipment Highlights
This type of sterilization system has a number of benefits. It is extremely fast which makes it ideal for assembly line production in manufacturing. In laboratory testing involving botulinum spores, a reduction of 6 log 10 was achieved with only 1 second of exposure. This high sterility assurance level (SAL) is considered the gold standard for many industries such as pharmaceutical manufacturing, food processing and chemical handling. Some organisms do take longer to kill; so the parameters used with the plasma equipment will no doubt be adjusted during implementation in various production environments
CDBD may eventually replace peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide in a variety of sterile processing applications. Harsh chemicals present some risk to employees, so the use of gas plasma (which operates at room temperature) could help create a safer work environment. The plasma system is more energy efficient than sterilization methods that are based on high heats. The ions don’t degrade or alter materials such as PET and polystyrene. This is a critical consideration when such plastic films are being used to seal containers and keep the contents sterile.
More About The Fraunhofer Institute
The Institute is named for a German scientist and inventor – Joseph von Fraunhofer. He was born in 1787 and worked as an apprentice glass grinder as a young man. His experience in this field led him to the invention of such items as the diffraction grid and the spectroscope.
Today, the Institute features a laser R&D facility that explores the latest ideas in light manipulation. This technology is being integrated with the Institute’s engineering and packaging division to create such systems as the CDBD plasma sterilization module.
For companies that require a sterile work environment, there is currently no real substitute for pressurized steam sterilization for many applications. Find out how to select the best equipment for your facility. Our report takes just minutes to read. Best of all, it is free!
