초록 ▼

A sterilization method for organic or inorganic matter which combines exposure to ultraviolet light and ultrasonic waves. The ultrasound waves are applied "dry" in that the object is not immersed into a liquid solution during the exposure cycle. This makes the sterilization method suitable for use i

A sterilization method for organic or inorganic matter which combines exposure to ultraviolet light and ultrasonic waves. The ultrasound waves are applied "dry" in that the object is not immersed into a liquid solution during the exposure cycle. This makes the sterilization method suitable for use in a mass production assembly line setting. Exposure of the object to the ultraviolet light and ultrasound waves can occur simultaneously, sequentially, or in alternating fashion.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method for sterilizing an organic or inorganic object, comprising simultaneously exposing said object to ultrasonic waves and ultraviolet light in a non-liquid environment, wherein said ultraviolet light has a wavelength between approximately 180 nm and approximately 32

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method for sterilizing an organic or inorganic object, comprising simultaneously exposing said object to ultrasonic waves and ultraviolet light in a non-liquid environment, wherein said ultraviolet light has a wavelength between approximately 180 nm and approximately 325 nm and a power density ranging from approximately 400,000 microwatts per cm.sup.2 per second to approximately 1,000,000 microwatts per cm.sup.2 per second, and wherein said ultrasonic waves have a frequency range between approximately 20 KHz and approximately 40 KHz and an output level of approximately 119 dB at approximately 0.5 meters from said object with a maximum power output of approximately 5 watts.