Dry Steam Destroys Bacteria
Oxford Catalysts, a manufacturer based in the United Kingdom, is developing a device to produce superheated steam almost instantaneously. Preliminary research indicates that applying the steam at temperatures between 150-180 degrees Celsius destroys bacteria.
The steam is produced by exposing a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and alcohol to a powder catalyst. The powder is approximately the size of a sugar cube, according to a report from the BBC.
The resulting reaction creates high temperature steam and carbon monoxide. The temperature of the resulting steam can be moderated to that required for a given application. The steam is delivered for cleaning via a handheld device. The company is in the process of developing device prototypes for a variety of applications.
A study completed at the University College Hospital London describes the antibacterial properties of dry steam applications. MRSA, for example, was effectively destroyed in less than two seconds. If the device provides cleansing akin to that achieved with autoclave, the approach should prove effective. And the means to create the sanitizing system increases the possible application of the Oxford products.
Results from the study at University College are to be published shortly.
July 30, 2007 Related topics: New Technology & Innovation, Laboratory Equipment