Ultrasonic Sterilization Process Technology

Ultrasonic Sterilization Process Technology

Ultrasonic sterilization utilizes the cavitation effect of ultrasound to destroy microbial cell walls. High-frequency sound waves generate countless tiny bubbles in liquids. The enormous energy released when these bubbles collapse can kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This technology is widely used in wastewater treatment, drinking water disinfection, liquid food sterilization, and the cleaning and disinfection of medical devices and instruments.

How it works

Cavitation effect: When ultrasound waves propagate through a liquid, they create alternating regions of compression and expansion. When the pressure drops below the vapor pressure, tiny bubble nuclei (cavities) form.

Energy release: The contraction and collapse of these bubbles instantly generate extremely high local temperatures and pressures, releasing powerful mechanical energy that damages microbial cell walls and causes their death.

Free radical generation: Cavitation also breaks down water molecules, generating highly oxidizing free radicals such as hydroxyl radicals (OH), which further oxidize and kill organic matter and microorganisms.

Other effects: In addition to cavitation, ultrasound can also generate mechanical vibrations, thermal effects, and induced resonance, synergistically enhancing its sterilization effectiveness.

Applications

Water Treatment: Used for wastewater treatment and drinking water disinfection, effectively killing various pathogens.

Food Industry: Non-thermal sterilization of liquid foods such as beverages and dairy products to preserve their original quality.

Medical: Used for cleaning and disinfecting medical devices, dentures, and other items, as well as ultrasonic teeth cleaning to remove tartar and plaque.

Other: Commonly used in laboratories and industrial production for cleaning precision parts such as glasses and watches.

Precautions

Energy Consumption: Ultrasonic sterilization alone can consume high energy, so it is often combined with other technologies (such as ozone, lasers, and heat treatment) to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Combined Processing: Combining heat treatment with pressure (thermosonics, pressure ultrasound, or autoclave ultrasound) can significantly improve sterilization rates and shorten processing times.