Cold plasma-solid state microwave system for microbial deactivation in grains
A high-capacity, continuous system combining cold plasma and solid-state microwave technology offers effective microbial decontamination of grains. It targets enteric contaminants like E. coli and Salmonella while maintaining grain quality.
Overview
The proposed cold plasma-solid-state microwave (SSMW) system offers a groundbreaking solution for the microbial decontamination of grains. This system is uniquely designed to effectively eliminate harmful pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella from contaminated wheat grain, ensuring food safety without compromising grain quality. By integrating cold plasma technology with SSMW, the system leverages precise control over phase, frequency, and power, delivering uniform energy distribution across the grain surface.
Technical specifications
Key Features:
- Cold Plasma Technology: Utilizes plasma guns for effective microbial deactivation with minimal impact on grain quality.
- Solid-State Microwave (SSMW): Employs an array of SSMW antennas for precise and uniform energy delivery, overcoming limitations of traditional magnetron-based systems.
- Vibratory Tray Conveyor: Ensures consistent grain exposure through adjustable shaking frequency and amplitude, enhancing decontamination efficiency.
- Scalable Design: The throughput can be adjusted to meet industrial requirements, making it suitable for large-scale operations.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at TRL 3, with proof of concept validated in controlled environments. Future plans include simulation model development, pilot-scale testing, and efficacy assessments to optimize and scale the system for industrial applications.
About University of Tasmania
The University of Tasmania is a comprehensive public research university with a statewide footprint across Hobart, Launceston and Burnie. Industry connects through co‑located assets including the Australian Maritime College’s hydrodynamics and simulation facilities and the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies in Hobart’s Antarctic gateway, plus clinical schools embedded in state hospitals. An Industry 4.0 Integrity of Food Testlab and the Launceston Institute help SMEs trial digital technologies and collaborate with university expertise, while the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture runs research farms that enable scale‑up and extension. Research is supported by competitive funding from the Australian Research Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council. Commercialisation is delivered by InVent (Innovation Ventures), providing IP management, licensing and startup pathways.
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