Sterilizing Medical Equipment with One Atmosphere Uniform Glow Discharge Plasma

The goal of this Phase I research project is to investigate the feasibility and commercial potential of using the One Atmosphere Uniform Glow Discharge Plasma (OAUGDP™) as a low-temperature sterilization process for medical equipment. Current sterilization technologies that pose a risk to health care workers and the environment are being phased out of use (e.g., ethylene oxide sterilization). This heightens the need to develop innovative environmentally and employee friendly technologies. The OAUGDP patented technology has been shown to be effective at sterilizing/decontaminating a number of surfaces for applications in biological/chemical decontamination, improving indoor air quality, blood products, and food. Furthermore, OAUGDP does not require consumables to operate nor does it generate waste or harmful byproducts. To demonstrate proof of concept, Atmospheric Glow Technologies will address the following goals: • Fabricate an OAUGDP prototype that will sterilize contaminated medical equipment. • Inoculate stainless steel surgical instruments with microorganisms and assess the OAUGDP exposure time necessary to sterilize the device in the presence or absence of organic debris. • Inoculate common sensitive medical equipment with microorganisms and assess the plasma exposure time necessary to sterilize the device in the presence or absence of organic debris. • Evaluate any potential surface modifications or effect on functionality occurring as a result of OAUGDP exposure through microscopic and analytical techniques. • Prepare a final report and the Phase II proposal.