Physical Methods For Inactivating Spores: A Critical Assessment

摘要

A significant literature has developed around the application of physical techniques to the inactivation of spores. These include pulsed high electric fields, plasma sterilization, and supercritical fluid extraction, in addition to the more traditional autoclaving technique. Pulsed high electric fields electroporate protective membranes, plasma sterilizers generate very reactive species, and supercritical fluids extract biologically significant compounds. Not all these techniques work as described, however. The cortex interferes with electroporation by showing properties similar to an ion channel, plasma sterilizers are sensitive to the composition of the working gas, and supercritical fluids are acidic in the presence of water. The use of an optimized combination of techniques provides a more efficient kill ratio.