Plasma Mechanisms for the Deactivation of Bacterial Spores
EMSL Project ID
2636
Abstract
Objective: Use SEM Micrographs to determine effect of ionized gases on bacterial spore coats. The bacterial spores used are nonhazardous mutant spores that have unique spore coat characteristics. Approach: A miniature plasma device patented by MicroEnergy Technologies will be used to treat metal coupons contaminanted with mutant spores. The small coupon treating plasma reactor will have different inert ionized gas atmospheres (provided by MicroET) to treat the contaminated coupon surfaces. Different power levels, gas environments, and treatment methods will be used to create the sample coupons. Specific instruments: It is hoped that SEMs of the bacterial spores may provide additional information about the mechanism of plasma deactivation. PNNL is a partner on this AFOSR STTR project with MicroET; the SEM usage is a small part of this larger project. In addition to SEM micrographs, non-EMSL PNNL personnel will be assisting in the plating of the bacterial spores, exposure of ultraviolet light, and heat treatment, to elucidate deactivation mechanisms.
Project Details
Project type
Exploratory Research
Start Date
2002-10-01
End Date
2003-10-07
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator