hiilidioksidiplasmasterilointi

Hiilidioksidiplasmasterilointi, also called carbon dioxide plasma sterilization, is a method of microbial inactivation that combines the use of carbon dioxide gas at elevated pressure with non‑thermal plasma. In the process, a plasma field is generated in a sealed chamber containing the items to be sterilized and a controlled mixture of CO₂ and a carrier gas, typically nitrogen or argon. The plasma produces a complex mixture of reactive species—including ions, radicals, ultraviolet photons, and high‑energy electrons—that interact with microbial cell walls, membranes, proteins and nucleic acids, leading to rapid cell death without the need for high temperatures.

The technique is particularly attractive for heat‑sensitive medical devices, such as flexible endoscopes, implantable sensors, and polymeric surgical instruments, because it operates at temperatures below 60 °C. The CO₂ component also contributes to sterilization by enhancing the penetration of reactive species and serving as a pressure medium that helps support the plasma. Compared to conventional autoclaving, hiilidioksidiplasmasterilointi typically requires only a few minutes of exposure and leaves no moisture residue, which simplifies equipment handling and reduces post‑sterilization drying times.

Research published in the early 2020s demonstrated effective log‑reduction of bacterial spores and enveloped viruses on a range of polymer interfaces. However, challenges remain: ensuring uniform plasma distribution throughout complex geometries, managing potential material degradation from reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, and scaling the technology for large‑volume sterilization. Continued development focuses on optimizing gas mixtures, pulse durations, and chamber designs to achieve broader regulatory acceptance for clinical use.