Researchers have demonstrated a prototype device that can kill bacteria on the skin or in the mouth, including the hospital superbug MRSA — using plasma, which does not normally recommend itself for topical use:
But the new research focuses on so-called cold atmospheric plasmas.Rather than turning a whole group of atoms into plasma, a more delicate approach strips the electrons off just a few, sending them flying.
Collisions with nearby, unchanged atoms slows down the electrons and charged atoms or ions they leave behind.
It has been known for some time that the resulting plasma is harmful to bacteria, viruses, and fungi — the approach is already used to disinfect surgical tools.
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The team says that an exposure to the plasma of only about 12 seconds reduces the incidence of bacteria, viruses, and fungi on hands by a factor of a million – a number that stands in sharp contrast to the several minutes hospital staff can take to wash using traditional soap and water.Professor Morfill said that the approach can be used to kill the bacteria that lead to everything from gum disease to body odour.