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Ultraviolet disinfection with a novel microwave-powered device
D A Devine1, A P Keech, D J Wood
1Oral Microbiology, Division of Oral Biology, Leeds Dental Institute, UK.
Journal of Applied Microbiology
|November 28, 2001
Summary
A novel ultraviolet (UV) beaker, powered by a domestic microwave, effectively disinfects surfaces, killing bacteria, viruses, and yeast rapidly. This method offers a safe, affordable, and versatile disinfection solution for various settings.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Biotechnology
- Public Health
Background:
- Microbial contamination poses significant risks in healthcare and domestic environments.
- Effective and accessible disinfection methods are crucial for preventing infections.
- Novel approaches to disinfection are needed to combat resistant microorganisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the antimicrobial effectiveness of a new ultraviolet (UV) beaker.
- To determine the feasibility of powering the UV beaker using a domestic microwave oven.
- To evaluate the disinfection potential against a range of microorganisms.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of three UV-generating beakers, with a focus on the Neutra Plasma 50 model.
- Testing the efficacy against planktonic and surface-associated bacteria (Streptococcus mutans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus stearothermophilus), viruses (herpes simplex, polio), fungi (Candida albicans), and bacterial spores.
- Quantification of microbial inactivation through viable counts and percentage reduction.
Main Results:
- The UV beakers demonstrated efficient killing of planktonic and surface-associated bacteria, viruses, and yeast.
- Rapid inactivation of Streptococcus mutans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, vegetative Bacillus stearothermophilus, herpes simplex, and polio viruses was observed.
- Candida albicans and Mycobacterium phleii showed slower inactivation, and Bacillus stearothermophilus endospores achieved 70% inactivation.
- A 45-second irradiation period reduced viable bacterial counts in saliva by over 99%.
Conclusions:
- The UV-generating beakers provide effective disinfection, significantly reducing viable counts of bacteria, yeast, and viruses.
- The kinetics of microbial inactivation are complex, likely influenced by a combination of UV light and heat.
- This novel UV generation method, utilizing a common microwave, presents a rapid, cost-effective, and non-toxic disinfection strategy with broad applicability in hospitals, clinics, and homes.