Device and Method for Generating a Pulsed Anisothermal Atmospheric Pressure Plasma

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention is a simple and cost-effective device and method for generating a pulsed, cold, atmospheric pressure plasma (usually in a thread-like form) using a negative DC corona discharge. It is specifically designed for precise antimicrobial treatment (such as sterilization, disinfection, and decontamination) of very small surfaces and cavities, including those on human and animal bodies. The device operates at low temperatures, making it safe for sensitive materials and biological tissues. It consists of at least one high-voltage electrode within a gas channel, with the object to be treated acting as the ground electrode. Beyond medical applications, the plasma can also be used for cleaning, coating, surface activation, and etching.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Precise disinfection of dental cavities, root canals, and gum pockets in dentistry
• Sterilization and antisepsis of microsurgical tools or tiny, hard-to-reach surgical sites
• Surface decontamination in medical device manufacturing or biolabs
• Decontamination of living tissues during wound care or dermatological procedures
• Targeted removal of biofilms or pathogens in minimally invasive clinical settings
• Surface cleaning, coating, and activation in microelectronics or semiconductor manufacturing
• Gentle etching or modification of sensitive surfaces in research and industrial applications

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Precise treatment of extremely small or hard-to-access areas and cavities
• Enables cold (non-thermal) plasma application, making it safe for heat-sensitive materials and living tissue
• Minimizes patient discomfort and avoids nerve stimulation due to very low currents
• Does not require expensive high-frequency generators, lowering cost and complexity
• Produces minimal ozone, reducing safety concerns during application
• Direct contact of plasma thread with contaminated surfaces increases efficacy
• Handheld, simple, and affordable design enhances portability and usability in clinical or lab settings

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for generating a pulsed (intermittent), cold, atmospheric pressure plasma, preferably a thread, for precise antimicrobial plasma treatment (antisepsis, disinfection, sterilization, decontamination) of very small surfaces and cavities, including on living human and animal bodies, preferably in the field of medicine, by means of a negative direct-current corona discharge, the device comprising at least one electrode for generating high field strengths, through or around which electrode the gas to be ionized flows in a gas channel, wherein the electrically conductive structure (surface, cavity) to be treated is used as the counter-electrode. Said plasma can also be used in general for cleaning, coating, activating, and etching surfaces.