Disinfection technology using the combined action of gas discharge plasma radiation and nanosecond electron beams

Abstract

It has been proposed to use the combined action of gas discharge plasma radiation and nanosecond electron beams to achieve the lower absorbed dose of radiation sterilization of food products. Before starting the experiments, the output of ultraviolet radiation from the high pressure nanosecond gas discharge plasma is simulated. An experiment was carried out to verify the calculations. The simulation data are compared with the experimental results.

Repetitive high voltage pulse generator GVI 150 is designed for use in electrophysical technologies to be used in installation for plasma radiation and nanosecond electron beam joint action. As a result of experiments it was found out that plasma radiation of gas discharge treatment has rather low efficiency and can be used selectively, for example, for elimination of Klebsiella microorganisms. However, the technology of combining nanosecond electron beam and gas discharge plasma radiation is promising. The combination of these two types of radiation gives a synergistic effect and makes it possible to reduce the radioresistance of some microorganisms and move the lower limit of the radiation treatment window to lower values. The advantage of this technology also lies in the possibility of eliminating the negative effects of high absorbed doses during irradiation on the nutritional value and physico chemical properties of products. Despite the significant results, further research is needed. Experiments with a wider range of products, such as spices, citrus fruits and bananas, are promising.