Ultrasound Disinfection
High Power Ultrasound (HPU) refers to soundwaves generated in water at high power and low frequencies (20 to 100 kHz). This initiates a cavitation process that may be an effective antimicrobial agent with potential use for disinfecting produce and food containers.
Sector
Electric Benefit
Agricultural
Industrial
Water Benefits
Reduces Water Use
Technology Readiness
Concept/Prototype
How Does It Work
The produce or container is placed in a water bath that is receiving high power ultrasound waves.
The waves initiate cavitation in the water; thousands of microbubbles are generated with internal gas temperatures up to 5500 C and pressure up to 50,000 kPa, with fluctuations occurring in microseconds.
Upon collapse, the shockwaves generated are strong enough to shear and break the cell wall and membrane structures of pathogens.
