Abstract: This invention relates to an electrochemical activation system adapted for production, and particularly on-site production, of separable and both of an aqueous, mixed oxidant, predominantly anion-containing solution and an aqueous, mixed reductant, predominantly cation-containing solution. The ECA system is characterised therein that it includes at least one electrolytic cell exchange module designed for accommodating one or more electrolytic cells therein, the electrolytic cell exchange module being removably arranged within the ECA system and characterised in either being disposable or reusable within the ECA system. The invention also extends to an electrolytic cell exchange module suitable for use within the system.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for automatically washing, disinfecting and/or sterilizing health care equipment and/or cooking and catering utensils. The method includes the steps of placing the equipment to be washed in an enclosure; introducing a first electrochemically activated aqueous solution into the enclosure; and either sequentially or simultaneously introducing a second electrochemically activated aqueous solution into the enclosure. The first solution is characterised therein that it has dispersing or surfactant characteristics for at least partially dispersing a biofilm, pathogenic microorganisms, contamination or the like. The second solution is characterised therein that it has biocidal characteristics for killing microorganisms and disinfecting and/or sterilizing the equipment. The invention also extends to an apparatus for use in the above method.