Abstract: The invention concerns the use of a sterilization agent comprising H2O2 or a derivative thereof, capable of generating H2O2 as the sterilising component under sterilization conditions, for enhancing the hemocompatibility of objects.

Abstract: The present invention describes a new system and method, named “Antinfection”, to protect primarily healthcare workers (HCWs) and patients against communicable and nosocomial infections. It's based on new antiseptic sprays, non-alcoholic, that can be sprayed automatically on the hands. The base of the antiseptic action is the persistent part, preventing the colonization of tissue and non-living surfaces with microorganisms through the targeted, on-demand release of Fluorine ions. The system including new sprayers for fast and controlled application; new technologies to secure the long-term protection against wear in the daily work routines of HCWs; new measurement techniques for the quality of the Antinfection; new quality recording concepts for the promotion and verification of new strategies and campaigns in the “lost war against the germs”.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for disinfection involving an antimicrobial composition. It particularly relates to an antimicrobial method for personal cleaning, oral care or hard surface cleaning applications. It was found that compositions comprising thymol, acyclic terpene alcohols and a carrier provide synergistic antimicrobial action in a method for disinfection. In a preferred aspect the composition also comprises 1 to 80%-wt of one or more surfactants.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an antimicrobial composition and a method for disinfection involving the antimicrobial composition. It particularly relates to an antimicrobial composition for personal cleaning, oral care or hard surface cleaning applications. It was found that compositions comprising thymol, p-menthene alcohols and a carrier provide synergistic antimicrobial action. In a preferred aspect the composition also comprises 1 to 80%-wt of one or more surfactants.

Abstract: Methods and systems for virus inactivation in the production or processing of biological or other sensitive substances are provided. The disclosed methods and systems for virus inactivation involve the key steps of dissolving carbon dioxide into biological or other sensitive substances; and treating the substance with the dissolved carbon dioxide at conditions which are less than critical pressure and temperature for a prescribed treatment time to inactivate at least 80% of the target virus or viruses contained within the biological or other sensitive substances. The disclosed carbon dioxide treatments for virus inactivation may optionally include concurrently or sequentially subjecting the substances with an acid treatment to lower the pH of the substance and inactivate viruses contained within the biological or other sensitive substance.

Abstract: A system for sterilizing a fluid includes a fluid source and a sterilization container bounding a fluid flow path that is in fluid communication with the fluid source. The sterilization container is comprised of one or more polymeric walls. An electron beam generator is configured to direct an electron beam through at least a portion of the fluid flow path of the sterilization container, the electron beam being sufficient to sterilize a fluid within the fluid flow path.

Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to a ventilator treatment system configured to sterilize and/or disinfect a fluid pathway through a ventilator by providing a forced flow of treatment gas to the ventilator. Ventilators are frequently contaminated with bacteria and viruses during normal use. When a ventilator is moved from one patient to the next, there is a risk of contaminating the new patient with a pathogen from the previous patient. The application of treatment gas is especially practical for sanitizing hard to access surfaces such as those found in the cavities and conduits (the fluid pathway) of a ventilator. A treatment gas such as, for example, ozone, converts back to oxygen and has a short half life, which can be further reduced with humidity, heat, or inexpensive destruct catalysts.

Abstract: A decontamination system for decontaminating at least one contaminant in a process stream. Decontaminant liquid is dispersed into the process stream using atomization. A controller detects contaminant levels in the process stream and adjusts the flow of decontaminant fluid into the process stream in response.

Abstract: A preform is easily and speedily sterilized. A number of preforms (1), each having a bottomed tubular shape, are laid on a conveyer (4) in a scraggly overturned manner, these preforms passes inside a chamber (5) together with the conveyer, and hydrogen peroxide water mist is sprayed from both sides of the conveyer in a direction crossing the conveyer in the chamber, thereby adhering the sprayed hydrogen peroxide water to inner and outer surfaces of the preforms (1) on the conveyer (4).

Abstract: Nitrogen oxide is used to safely sterilize inside of a space area or an object arranged within the space area. A sterilization method is provided to comprise: introducing nitrogen oxide liquid stored in a vessel (4) into a space area (2, 2?, 2?) to gasify nitrogen oxide liquid, and sterilizing inside of space area (2, 2?, 2?) or object (1) arranged in space area (2, 2?, 2?) with nitrogen oxide gas evaporated from nitrogen oxide liquid to completely annihilate and destroy microorganisms inclusive of bacteria and virus with nitrogen oxide gas for preventing the infection by microorganisms to human body and damage to precision components.

Abstract: The present inventive subject matter is drawn to systems and methods of disinfecting and sanitizing the tires and forks of industrial forklifts. In one aspect of this invention, a modular forklift disinfecting system is presented comprising a sanitizing trough designed to allow driving a forklift up a first ramp, into the sanitizing trough containing a sanitizing solution, and out the other end of the sanitizing trough down a second ramp. The system is designed to operate without diverting the forklift from its normal business operation, or utilizing any extra machinery. In another aspect of this invention, a method for disinfecting the tires and forks of industrial forklifts is also presented.

Abstract: Methods and devices for gas sterilization are described, in which products are sterilized using a sterilization gas. Process gases are mixed in a mixer without movable parts before being introduced into the sterilization chamber in order to obtain a homogenous gas mixture. A device for the gas sterilization of products comprises a mixer without movable parts and a sterilization chamber. The sterilization chamber has at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening. The mixer is arranged such that it is connected via a first line, which leads into a first opening in the mixer without movable parts, with the at least one outlet opening of the sterilization chamber and is connected via a second line, which leads into a second opening in the mixer without movable parts, with the at least one inlet opening of the sterilization chamber. A third gas supplying line leads into a third opening in the mixer.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for filling or packing contents, particularly beverages, food, medications, or the like, into containers. As the containers pass through the device from an inlet to an outlet side, the containers passing through the working chamber have a sterile fluid, particularly sterile air, applied thereto for preventing germ growth. In order to reduce the cleaning effort for lines for the sterile fluid, the invention proposes that a cleaning medium having an internal line is inserted into the line for applying the sterile fluid. The line no longer needs to be disassembled in order to load the sterile fluid. In order to distribute the sterile fluid uniformly throughout the containers in a working chamber, the sterile fluid is distributed in two stages, first by means of the pipe extending into the working chamber, as described above and then through a profile extending over the containers and below the pipe, having openings for passing the sterile fluid.

Abstract: A sterilizing apparatus includes an enclosure defining an interior chamber and a door for accessing the interior chamber. A fluid source communicates with the chamber to supply a working fluid thereto. A heater heats the fluid in the chamber and a pump moves the fluid in the chamber by the heater. A valve communicates with the chamber and with the exterior of the chamber and is configured to vent the fluid in the chamber to the exterior at a pressure of approximately one atmosphere. Such provides superheating and concentrating of the working fluid in the chamber. A method of sterilization includes introducing a working fluid into an interior chamber and circulating the fluid through at least one recirculation loop having a heater for heating the fluid to an operational temperature suitable for killing microorganisms. The method further provides for killing of very high temperature resistant microorganisms.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and system for obtaining a solution from a solid product are disclosed. A solid product is housed in a dispenser. A liquid is introduced into the housing of the dispenser to interact with the solid product to form a solution. To control the concentration of the formed solution, the turbulence of the liquid introduced to the dispenser is controlled and adjusted either manually or on a real time basis to account for varying characteristics of either or both of the solid product and the liquid. The dispenser will adjust the turbulence based on the characteristics to maintain a formed solution within an acceptable range of concentration. The concentrated solution can then be discharged from the dispenser to an end use application.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilizing an article. The method comprises placing an article in a sterilization container, generating oxidizing plasma radicals at atmospheric pressure, and providing the oxidizing plasma radicals to the sterilization container to sterilize the article in the container.

Abstract: Methods and systems for on-site generation of peracid chemistry, namely peroxycarboxylic acids and peroxycarboxylic acid forming compositions, are disclosed. In particular, an adjustable biocide formulator or generator system is designed for on-site generation of peroxycarboxylic acids and peroxycarboxylic acid forming compositions from sugar esters. Methods of using the in situ generated peroxycarboxylic acids and peroxycarboxylic acid forming compositions are also disclosed.

Abstract: A sterilizing apparatus (10, 80) includes an enclosure (18, 84) defining an interior chamber (20, 86) and a door (22) for accessing the interior chamber (20, 86). A fluid source (42, 88) communicates with the chamber (20, 86) to supply a working fluid thereto. A heater (64, 102) heats the fluid in the chamber (20, 86) and a pump (62, 82) moves the fluid in the chamber (20, 86) by the heater (64, 102). A valve (50, 150) communicates with the chamber (20, 86) and with the exterior of the chamber (20, 86) and is configured to vent the fluid in the chamber (20, 86) to the exterior at a pressure of approximately one atmosphere. Such provides superheating and concentrating of the working fluid in the chamber (20, 86). A method of sterilization includes introducing a working fluid into an interior chamber (20, 86) and circulating the fluid through at least one recirculation loop (54, 96) having a heater (64, 102) for heating the fluid to an operational temperature suitable for killing microorganisms.

Abstract: A sterilization unit comprises at least one nozzle pipe for injection of a sterilization agent into a packaging container to be sterilized. The sterilization unit is driven to move in an axial direction, in a downward stroke and an upward stroke, corresponding to a longitudinal direction of the nozzle pipe such that it is inserted into an open end of the packaging container during sterilization thereof. The nozzle pipe is suspended such as to be displaceable in relation to the sterilization unit, in the axial direction.

Abstract: An improved mobile apparatus for sterilizing surgical trays serves as a self-contained autoclave, allowing sterilization of the interior of the apparatus and its contents. A method of sterilization using the apparatus is presented as well. By means of a dedicated transfer and storage system, the apparatus, integrable with respect to a transfer cart and a lift device, may be moved easily between a location of sterilization, a storage area, and an operating room, and more than one such apparatus may be stacked vertically for storage to enhance storage efficiency.

Abstract: Sanitization apparatuses, kits, and methods, such as, for example, for pens, styluses, handles, remote controls, and pagers.

Abstract: A backing for a jewelry article includes an outer casing surrounding a chamber storing a disinfectant. Aligned apertures are formed in opposing walls of the backing for allowing passage of a mounting post therethrough. Sealing membranes are retained proximate the apertures to prevent disinfectant from leaking out of the chamber, while permitting the post to be passed therethrough. An absorbent material is housed within the chamber of the outer casing for absorbing the disinfectant disposed within the chamber while permitting the post to pass through such absorbent material. The post is passed into a first aperture, through the chamber, and out of a second aperture for bringing the disinfectant in contact with a majority of the post.

Abstract: An isolator includes: a working chamber in which work is conducted; an atomizer configured to atomize air or a decontamination material in the working chamber: a pump configured to supply the decontamination material to the atomizer; a compressor configured to supply air to the atomizer; a pressure sensor configured to measure an internal pressure of the working chamber; and a control unit configured to perform a leak test, in which the compressor is driven to supply air from the atomizer into the working chamber thereby pressuring the working chamber, and airtightness of the working chamber is tested based on the internal pressure of the working chamber measured by the pressure sensor.

Abstract: The invention provides a contact lens cleaning composition comprising at least two nonionic surfactants and optionally including a non-Newtonian viscosity enhancing excipient.

Abstract: A microfibrillar high molecular weight chitosan-based textile can be used as a hemostat. The chitosan has been treated in a nitrogen field by applying energy to ionize nitrogen in and around the chitosan textile. A single or multiple such treatments may be employed. For example, the chitosan textile may be irradiated under nitrogen using ?-irradiation, treated under a nitrogen plasma, or both.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a toothbrush comprises a hollow container having an interior with an upper section and a lower section. The upper section is open for allowing insertion and withdrawal of a toothbrush along an axis and the lower section defines a reservoir for storing a cleaning fluid. A plurality of fins are mounted to the container and arranged about the axis to project inward toward the axis at a distance above a bottom of the reservoir. The distal ends of the fins are spaced for deflecting bristles of the toothbrush during passage of the toothbrush along the axis past the distal ends of the fins from one side of the plurality of fins to another side of the plurality of fins. An additional set of fins is provided for drying excess cleaning fluid from the brush. The fins are removable from the container for thorough cleaning or replacement.

Abstract: A sanitary agent for treatment of a sanitary appliance includes a solid or semi-solid active body, designed to adhere to a wall of the sanitary appliance and including a treatment compound having at least an active element for treatment of the sanitary appliance. The body has an external surface thereof covered by a water-soluble film. In this way, the sanitary agent can be manipulated by hand for application thereof to a moist ceramic wall of a sanitary appliance to be treated, without the user's hands entering into contact with the components of the sanitary agent itself. Furthermore, any undesired loss of the components of the sanitary agent is avoided; these can be due to deformation of the sanitary agents before use thereof, displacements thereof and/or any dripping. A method for applying the sanitary agent for deterging, disinfecting and/or perfuming the sanitary appliance is also provided.

Abstract: A valve apparatus and methods associated thereof are provided. The valve apparatus includes a valve housing structure. A first valve portion is connected to the valve housing structure, wherein the first valve portion has a sealing edge. A second valve portion is positioned at least partially within the valve housing structure. A constrictable membrane has a pressurizable interior compartment, wherein the constrictable membrane supported by the second valve portion and positioned proximate to the first valve portion, wherein at least a portion of the constrictable membrane is movable to engageable with the sealing edge of the first valve portion.

Abstract: This patent discloses a novel and effective device and process, which combines the advantages of refrigeration in a synergistic manner with the advantages of hydrogen peroxide and other organic and inorganic peroxygen compounds, resulting in an enhanced ability to reduce and/or eliminate microbial activity and mitigate malodors. This device and process is suitable for the continuous in-situ sanitation and deodorization of enclosed or semi enclosed spaces, which may contain foodstuffs or other putresable items, which would be otherwise adversely affected by the activity of bacteria, mold, mildew or malodors. In particular this invention has application in environments such as refrigerators, cool rooms and freezers, where products are stored for the purpose of extending their shelf life and preventing damage by the activity of microorganisms.

Abstract: An apparatus for the treatment of plastics material containers includes at least one movable support which is arranged in an isolator room to which a sterilization agent is capable of being supplied. The isolator room is constructed in at least two parts, and a first boundary of the isolator room is fixed in position during a movement of the movable support, while a second boundary of the isolator room is connected to the apparatus in such a way that it is suitable, during a movement of the movable support, for following this movement. The apparatus has at least one device for supplying the sterilization agent into the isolator room. The supplying device is suitable for acting with the sterilization agent upon the parts of the apparatus movable relative to this device and situated inside the isolator room.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multi-dosing detergent delivery device.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an apparatus (10) for decontaminating an enclosure that includes a passage having an inlet (18) to receive a carrier gas from the enclosure, an outlet (31) to discharge the carrier gas to the enclosure, a fan (21) for causing a low of carrier gas through the passage from the inlet to the outlet, and a vapour generator (19) where a decontaminant vapour is introduced into the flow of carrier gas to be discharged with the flow at the outlet to decontaminate the enclosed space. A further fan (33) delivers a separate flow of gas from the enclosure bypassing the passageway in which the decontaminant vapour is introduced to be delivered into the enclosure from outlet vents (32) adjacent the vapour outlets (31) to assist in dispersing the carrier gas containing decontaminant vapour throughout the enclosure.

Abstract: A reverse osmosis separation process is disclosed, such as for desalination and waste water reuse process, wherein an effectiveness of membrane cleaning can be estimated. Exemplary embodiments operate the reverse osmosis membrane cleaning process for a controlled time for cleaning and with a controlled value of chemical concentration in a chemical liquor prepared for cleaning the membrane. A method can include estimating fouling status of the membrane and determining a controlled value of chemical concentration in the chemical liquor, and a controlled time for cleaning based on the fouling status of the membrane.

Abstract: A system providing for on-site reclamation and re-use of reclaimed antimicrobial solution includes a dispenser, at least one receptacle, piping, and at least one pump. The dispenser sprays antimicrobial solution toward moving raw food products. Unspent antimicrobial solution that did not contact the moving raw food products and rebound antimicrobial solution that did contact the raw food products combine to form a reclaimed antimicrobial solution. The reclaimed antimicrobial solution is collected in the receptacle and is pumped through the piping to a location for reuse.

Abstract: Portable decontamination and deodorization systems configured to decontaminate a target environment for specified periods of time. A housing contains pressurized media. A spherical media diffuser can be connected to and controlled by a sphere retainer module and a funnel-like orifice can be located under a lower hemisphere of the spherical media diffuser to move the spherical media diffuser and over the funnel-like orifice creating a gap there-between to evenly distribute chemical in a fog or spray throughout a room. a valve controller can be coupled by tubing between media contained in said housing and the gap formed between the spherical media diffuser and funnel-like orifice.

Abstract: Antiseptic compositions comprising at least one salt of EDTA are disclosed. These compositions have broad spectrum antimicrobial and antifungal activity and they also have anticoagulant properties. The antiseptic compositions have also demonstrated activity in penetrating and breaking down microbial slime, or biofilms. They are safe for human and medical uses and may be used as prophylactic preparations to prevent infection, or to reduce the proliferation of and/or eliminate existing or established infections.

Abstract: Systems and processes to dispense, clean and sanitize the key exposure points in the filling process to reduce risk of mold, yeast, or bacteria product spoilage, with minimal downtime. In some embodiments, a process uses a chemical solution that includes a liquid including potable water or another liquid—such as paramagnetic water, ultrapure water, R.O. water or any other kind of modified water—and a biocide solution such as sodium hypochlorite, stabilized chlorine dioxide, etc. at concentrations between 0.5 and 200 ppm or any of the components of electrochemical activated (EAC) water. In some embodiments, the water has a low enough chemical concentration to allow application without a follow-up rinse. The high ORP water at high pressure and flow removes the statically charged particles, preventing micro growth in between sprays, and effectively cleaning and sanitizing in a single step.

Abstract: A synergistic microbicidal composition containing a phenolic compound selected from the class consisting of chlorinated phenols, monosubstituted phenols, fused bicyclic phenols, isopropyl methyl catechols, and monosubstituted catechols and an antimicrobial alcohol selected from the class of menthadiene alcohols and other antimicrobial alcohols.

Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods for treating red blood cell compositions with a pathogen-inactivating compound under conditions which provide suitable pathogen inactivation while maintaining cell vitality. Also provided methods of reducing dehydration in red blood cells, as well as treated red blood cell compositions.

Abstract: Machine (10) and method for treating containers (12) of liquids comprising in succession at least a loading station (15), into which the containers (12) to be treated are loaded, and all disposed according to a determinate first orientation, and a washing station (17), in which the containers (12) are subjected at least to washing and are disposed in a second orientation able to promote the fall due to gravity of the dirt and/or washing liquid present in the containers (12). The machine (10) comprises, downstream of the washing station (17) and outside it, a manipulator device (41) which automatically rotates the containers (12) exiting form the washing station (17) so as to reposition the containers (12) according to the first determinate orientation.

Abstract: In one aspect, there is provided assembling an analyte sensor with an analyte sensor insertion device, packaging the assembled analyte sensor and sensor insertion device in a substantially airtight seal, and irradiating the packaged assembled analyte sensor and sensor insertion device at a predetermined dose using one or more electron beam accelerators.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an antimicrobial composition and a method for disinfection involving the antimicrobial composition. It particularly relates to an antimicrobial composition for personal cleaning, oral care or hard surface cleaning applications. It was found that compositions comprising one or more monosubstituted phenols, terpineol and a carrier provide synergistic antimicrobial action. In a preferred aspect the composition also comprises 1 to 80%-wt of one or more surfactants.

Abstract: A process and system for sterilization of a product pathway of a blow-fill-seal machine. The process comprises steps of: (1) isolating a holding tank from the product pathway; (2) supplying a sterilizing agent to the product pathway of the BFS machine when the holding tank is isolated; (3) stopping the supply of sterilizing agent to the product pathway when a threshold is reached; and (4) supplying filtered compressed air to the product pathway when the supply of sterilizing agent is stopped. The process is preferably executed automatically without human intervention once initiated. Also described is a system for carrying out the process including a processor, valves and temperature and/or pressure sensors which provide information to the processor to determine when to open and close the valves to supply sterilizing agent and/or compressed air to the product pathway or holding tank.

Abstract: A shower sterilization system is provided. The system comprises shower apparatus including water supply means (2), a shower head (6) and shower conduit means (4) connecting the shower head to the water supply means. An applicator device (16) is located between the water supply means and the shower head for receiving a sterilization or biocidal composition in use and allowing said sterilization or biocidal composition to be delivered to one or more parts of said shower apparatus.

Abstract: It is to provide a mechanism where a sterilization process using a concentrated sterilizing agent and a sterilization process using a sterilizing agent that has not been concentrated can be switched without changing the sterilization process. In the case where the concentrated mode is received by receiving means the transfer of the sterilizing agent to the concentration chamber is controlled according to a first timing, and in the case where the non-concentrated mode is received by the receiving means, the transfer of the sterilizing agent to the concentration chamber is controlled according to a second timing, wherein the first timing is different from the second timing.

Abstract: The invention concerns a process for disinfection and/or conservation and/or reduction and/or control of microbial contamination of aqueous dispersions and/or aqueous suspensions of mineral matter, providing satisfactory stability in terms of Brookfield™ viscosity for the said aqueous dispersions and/or suspensions of mineral matter. It also concerns the said aqueous dispersions and/or suspensions thus obtained, together with their uses in the mineral, paper and paint industries. Finally it concerns the end products obtained.

Abstract: A system for disinfecting a room includes an enclosure having first and second air inlets and an air intake control assembly to selectably control air flow into the enclosure through the first and second air inlets. Air that flows between the exterior and interior of the enclosure through the second air inlet passes through a filter assembly. The enclosure also includes an air dispersion outlet having a fan that draws air into the enclosure through the first and second air inlets and forces air out of the enclosure. A chemical dispersion assembly generates a disinfecting fog relative to the fan. A system controller controls the air intake control assembly to disperse the disinfecting fog into the room, and subsequently draw the disinfecting fog from the room and through the filter assembly.

Abstract: A personal dispensing system allows a user to dispense a viscous liquid, such as a disinfectant liquid gel. The dispenser includes a mounting clip which can be worn on the belt of a user. The dispenser has a front sidewall with openings which allow the viscous liquid to be dispensed onto a user's hands. The openings on the front sidewall of the container body and the viscosity of the liquid are selected so that the viscous liquid weeps out of the openings without dripping, or a hand pump can dispense the liquid. The front face of the device can also house a single horizontal roller or a number of roller balls for dispensing the viscous liquid.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for disinfecting a space by applying an aqueous disinfecting composition as a fine aerosol having a droplet size wherein 50% of the droplets have a diameter of at the most 100 ?m to a space and leaving the space to air-dry, the aqueous composition comprising: a. hydrogen peroxide in a concentration of 1 to 10% (w/w); b. acyclic carboxylic acid or salt thereof in a concentration of 0.01 to 2% (w/w); c. a humectant in a concentration of 0.05% to 15% (w/w).

Abstract: An attractive and compact device and an effective method to store and disinfect a manual shaving razor are disclosed. The method reduces corrosion of the razor's metal blades. A compact container has separate but suitably connected chambers allowing for economy of use of as disinfectant liquid combining alcohol, detergent or soap and skin conditioner. By protecting the razor in one enclosed chamber, oxidative damage and rusting of blades is avoided. A knife edge element is placed at the bottom of another chamber to pierce the foil seal of a suitably inserted bottle within the other chamber. An optional third, drainage chamber below the other two chambers allows for appropriate drainage and removal both of excess fluid used, as well as hair and debris from the blades. The design of the device is compact and attractive, as is the method an extremely effective way of protecting and disinfecting the razor.