Dynamic Mechanism-Based Portable Anti-Microbial Green Decontamination Station

Abstract

Objectives:The current research is focused on development and evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of a portable green conveyor machine. Methods: The conveyor belt station was fabricated and incorporated with UV-C (265nm) lamps and air plasma cluster ion generator. Antimicrobial efficacy was evaluated against bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus), fungi (Aspergillus brasiliensis) and bacteriophage (MS2) according to the ISO Standard No. 18593:2018 (Microbiology) at varying speeds. Findings : A universal portable green conveyor-based station(CoVDecon) capable of disinfecting daily use items such as; bags, lunch boxes, shoes, cloth, etc. was developed with applications in public places such as universities, airports, railway stations etc. On performing antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral studies it was observed that the machine at a speed of 3m/sec successfully eliminated 99.39% of gramnegative and gram-positive bacteria, 99% of the fungi and 99% of virus after 3 rounds. Efficacy against bacteria, fungi and virus dropped to 97%, 95% and 97% respectively on increasing the speed to 35m/sec. However, the efficacy might have reduced with an increase in speed due to less time of exposure of the test substance to UV lamps and plasma cluster ions The study indicated that the machine has successfully eliminated the test-microorganisms from contaminated object irrespective of its placement on the belt. Finally, the machine produces no toxic waste, is portable, and cost-efficient. Novelty: The developed conveyor tunnel uses UV and plasma cluster ions provides high efficacy antimicrobial activity by eliminating pathogens from the articles completely, including internal pockets and cavities.