Analysis of a new sterilization device based on ozone generation by dielectric barrier discharge

The bactericidal effects of high concentrations of airborne ozone have been tested against Escherichia coli. Unlike previous sterilization methods, ozone is produced inside the sterilization chamber itself, reaching high ozone concentrations exceeding 1000 ppm. Ozone-generating ceramic plates are placed inside the sterilization chamber and switched on for a maximum operating time of 3 minutes. After the ozone plates are turned off, heating resistors are turned on for ozone destruction for a period not exceeding 20 minutes. The experimental study was performed using Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 bacteria. A sterilization rate higher than 99.99% was obtained for this species.