Reduction of micro-organism on food powder particles - Design and application of atmospheric plasma-reactors

For specific applications, nearly sterile powders are requested. A minimal microbiological charge of such powders cannot be completely prevented during production, yet conventional methods for sterilisation, such as autoclaving or chemicals can not be applied because of the sensibility of some powders to heat, humidity and / or mechanical stress.

Cold plasma has in recent years become an ideal solution for many difficult sterilisation tasks. A dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma reactor for a cold inactivation of bacteria in food powders shall be developed. A parameter set for designing and scaling the DBD plasma reactor will be delivered including the plasma density – powder exposition time relations. Performance and inactivation test will be executed using food powders like milk powder and starch.