Eur. Phys. J. Appl. Phys. 34, 143-146 (2006)
https://doi.org/10.1051/epjap:2006036

Inactivation of Escherichia coli in the flowing afterglow of an N₂ discharge at reduce pressure: study of the destruction mechanisms of bacteria and hydrodynamics of the afterglow flow

¹ CPAT, University Paul Sabatier, 118 route de Narbonne, 31062 Toulouse, France
² Dental School University Paul Sabatier, 118 route de Narbonne, 31062 Toulouse, France

Corresponding author: sarahcousty@hotmail.com

Received: 7 October 2005
Revised: 31 January 2006
Accepted: 24 February 2006
Published online: 4 May 2006

Abstract

We present the optimization of a sterilization process with a N₂ flowing afterglow post-discharge. First we study the inactivation of bacteria (E. coli) submitted to the post-discharge, and discuss the mechanisms of bacteria inactivation. Then we evaluate the volume repartition of the active species (N atoms produced by plasma discharge) in the chamber of treatment.