Stimulation of pulsed-periodical diffuse discharge to be used for medical instrumentation sterilisation

Gas-discharge methods of the contaminated matter sterilization have some substantial merits. Among them the low sterilization temperature and high efficiency should be mentioned. The most promising method seems to be sterilization with the pulse-periodic diffuse discharge. For the study of the diffuse discharge initiation an experimental equipment has been developed which included gas-discharge chambers with various electrode systems and the high voltage pulse-periodic generator. The common feature of all electrode systems is their ability to form highly nonuniform electric fields. The pulse-periodic source has been developed on the basis of a pulsed transformer and a high voltage block for the formation of nanosecond pulses with the amplitude up to 120 kV and front duration up to 10 ns. The discharge electric power supply system includes a direct voltage bias. The diffuse discharge was exited in the pressure range from 1.3 kPa to 26.7 kPa, its volume was up to 20 dm/sup 3/. The discharge parameters are dependent on the air pressure in the chamber, the discharge gap configuration and the generator pulse amplitude. The essential role of the bias voltage was observed. It contributes to more uniform structure of the discharge in larger spaces.