Advances in the development of ultraviolet sterilization system for specific biological applications

Abstract

The scope of the paper is to investigate the design of an ultraviolet sterilization unit developed to work in conjunction with a fluid dispenser for dispensing fluids in measured quantities periodically. Common problems associated with contamination of fluids in these dispensers have been carefully investigated to qualitatively document the requirements of the system. We have designed a protocol to study the efficiency of the system and in order to have a real picture of the antimicrobial effects of ultraviolet radiation at various locations inside the dispensing chamber. To implement this protocol, we have designed an implantable array which is capable of containing micro organisms in Petri dishes which can be stationed at various levels within the stainless steel dispenser. Studies on the microbial growth conducted periodically under the influence of ultraviolet radiation of known intensity provide a qualitative picture on the antimicrobial effects of ultraviolet rays at various depths. Thus it was possible to qualitatively analyze each sample for documenting antimicrobial effect. The study has been focused on the qualitative assessment of the antimicrobial effects at various parts of the dispenser and also the variations of the antimicrobial effects at various depths of the fluid contained in the dispenser. This study provides a good understanding on the intensity of the ultraviolet radiation required for providing a perfect antimicrobial environment and also other factors that are critical in the design of the system as a whole for dispensing fluids used in biological applications.