Gas Plasma Sterilization

Gas plasma are energized gases. Various particles (ions, radicals, electrons) and/or radiation (UV light) generated on plasma formation can have potent microbicidal effects. Plasma are generated by applying energy to a gas or gases, such as oxygen, argon and nitrogen. Plasma have been investigated for a variety of decontamination applications including cleaning, disinfection and sterilization. They are used directly for their antimicrobial properties but also indirectly as part of disinfection/sterilization processes. The choice of gas/gases is important for optimization, not only for efficacy against microorganisms but also for surface compatibility. Investigations have lead to proposals regarding their mode of action. Perspectives on the future development of gas plasma as true sterilization techniques are discussed.