Sterilization by electrohydraulic discharges

Abstract

SummaryHigh voltage electric discharges between two electrodes immersed in a liquid ("electrohydraulic discharges") inactivate microorganisms suspended in the liquid. The intense pulse of UV radiation emitted from the plasma formed between the electrodes causes most of the bactericidal effects, rather than shock waves, or free radicals or other chemical species formed in the liquid medium.A method of sterilizing materials without contamination from electrode debris is described. Possible applications and limitations of the technique are outlined.