Plasma gas mixture for sterilizer and method

Details Plasma gas mixture for sterilizer and method Plasma gas mixture for sterilizer and method

1994-03-21

1995-12-05

Warden, Robert J.

Chemical apparatus and process disinfecting, deodorizing, preser

Process disinfecting, preserving, deodorizing, or sterilizing

Using direct contact with electrical or electromagnetic...

422 22, 422 28, 422 32, A61L 208

Patent

active

054726646

ABSTRACT:
A method for plasma sterilization comprises exposing an article to be sterilized to a neutral active species of a plasma generated from a premixed gas mixture comprising oxygen, hydrogen, and a noble gas. The exposure of the article to the plasma is carried out at reduced pressures and a chamber temperature of less than 63.degree. C. for a time period sufficient to effect sterilization. The apparatus for plasma sterilization of articles comprises a plasma generator, a sterilizing chamber, and a source of pressurized gas mixture in fluid communication with the plasma generator. The source of pressurized gas mixture has a noble gas and a substantially nonflammable mixture of hydrogen and oxygen, which is preferably between about 2.0 to 2.4 (v/v) percent hydrogen and between 2.6 to 3.0 (v/v) percent oxygen.

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