Room temperature sterilization of medical devices with OAUGDP

Summary form only given. The sterilization of complex multicomponent medical devices is difficult due to narrow channels and the presence of optics and electronics. Atmospheric Glow Technologies is pursuing the development of room temperature sterilization of these devices using one atmosphere uniform glow discharge plasma. Studies to date demonstrate the ability to routinely neutralize 6 logs of Bacillus endospores within 10 minutes at room temperature using only the convected exhaust from an air plasma. No liquid or gas additives are required. Since sterilization of medical devices is often hindered by the presence of organic debris, AGT has conducted assays in the presence of 10% bovine albumin serum and 0.65% sodium chloride as an organic matrix simulant. These assays support the ability of the reactive chemical species to penetrate the matrix and neutralize underlying microorganisms. This is particularly evident for plasma created with an increased concentration of oxygen as the input gas. Analyses have verified that exposures of 60 minutes have minimal effect on polymers as assessed with scanning electron microscopy. Ongoing efforts to identify and characterize the reactive chemical species responsible for biological neutralization indicate a role for singlet delta oxygen. The development of OAUGDP for room temperature sterilization could provide an economical sterilization option for small to medium-sized healthcare facilities.