Objective:

Objective: Investigate plasma based hand sanitizers as better alternatives to traditional methods.

Question: 

Can plasma technologies be utilized for hand sanitization? We consume significant amounts of water and produce substantial waste in the manufacturing of soap and alcohol sanitizers. The process of making industrial soap also generates harmful waste materials, which contribute to the pollution of our streams, rivers, and oceans. Why not explore an alternative method of sanitization without any drawbacks? 

 

Method: 

First I will complete research on:

• How would you generate plasma
• Can this substance be stored in a feasible manner
•  what are the possible uses for this device
•  how is this device going to be powered
•  how will this device function
•  where will it be located

Then I will ask an expert (Mounir Laroussi, an American physicist):

• If this project is feasible 
• Any feedback he might have

After I will synthesize my results to get a concussion

• Make a pros/cons list about this technologies
• Write a rationale about soap vs. alcohol sanitizers vs. plasma technologies   

 

Background Information: What is Plasma? 

Plasma is a superheated matter; it is extremely hot, and the electrons are ripped away from the atoms, forming an ionized gas. There are also positively charged ions and a multitude of free electrons zooming around. Comprising 99% of all matter in our universe, examples of plasma include stars, nebulas, auroras, lightning, and the sun. Plasma is often referred to as the fourth state of matter. Plasma can be a superheated matter (thermal plasma) but can also be “cold” (non-thermal plasma) The crucial aspect of my project is that it is 100% bacteria-free.

How would we generate plasma? 

First, there must be enough energy for the movement of electrons and force that enables them to come in close contact with one another. 

One method to collect or "gather" plasma is heating gas to a very high temperature. The best gases for this would be argon, helium, or air because they are the most suitable for this kind of project. Plasma is generated in a low-pressure environment, so a vacuum pump is needed to reduce the pressure in a chamberThe pressure and type of gas influence the characteristics of the resulting plasma. 

Use a high-voltage power source to apply an electric field to the gas. This electric field ionizes the gas, leading to the creation of plasma. The high-energy electrons in the electric field collide with gas molecules, causing the gas to become ionized. This process results in the formation of positively charged ions and free electrons. Another method would be to apply a high eclectic field to energize the electrons that will start the ionization process. For this method, the gases that I listed earlier will also work. Cold plasma can also be used for my project. The high voltage will accelerate the electrons, which collide with atoms and molecules and ionize them. 

Plasma can also be extracted from a natural source. Spacecraft and satellites can collect plasma from solar winds or other space environments. Plasma is often created on-site for specific applications and may have a short shelf life. 

How would we preserve it? 

Once collected, the plasma would need to be stored in a controlled environment. Plasma cannot be stored the same way as a solid or gas due to its high energy and high-temperature nature. 

Plasma is typically generated when needed for specific applications. In applications like hand sanitization, plasma would likely be produced in real-time rather than stored. It is also an unstable state of matter, and

it tends to dissipate rapidly. Therefore, attempting to store plasma for an extended period is challenging. Systems that use plasma for specific applications often involve continuous generation rather than storage. Plasma is produced when needed, ensuring a fresh and effective supply. 

So for this project, we would need to make it real-time. We would need to integrate plasma generating in the device it’s self, while still making it user-friendly yet compact design. 

 

How would this device work/be used/powered? 

We would use the concept of a hand dryer but replace the air with either cold plasma or plasma-activated water. 

Cold plasma or nonthermal plasma, is the same as regular plasma its temperature is close to room temperature ( 20°C - 100°C) so it will be safe to touch. It is used in various applications, including sterilization, surface treatment, wastewater treatment, and air purification, due to its ability to generate reactive species without high temperatures. Water-activated plasma refers to the use of water as a medium to generate and sustain a plasma discharge, typically by applying an electric field to water or a water-containing substance. Same as cold plasma, It finds application in various fields, including sterilization, surface treatment, wastewater treatment, and air purification, thanks to its capacity to generate reactive species without requiring elevated temperatures. Water-activated plasma is favoured for its safety benefits, as it operates at lower temperatures compared to some other plasma technologies. 

This device would work just like a hand dryer. The user would approach the device with their hands, bringing them within the device's sensors. Upon detecting the user's hands, the device would automatically activate. Cold plasma or plasma-activated water, would be emitted toward the user's hands, surrounding them with a disinfecting plasma stream. The user would hold their hands within the plasma stream for a specified duration, allowing the cold plasma to effectively disinfect their hands. Once the predetermined time has elapsed, the device would automatically deactivate, signalling that the disinfection process is complete, and the user can then withdraw their hands from the device. 

If we are using cold plasma then it would need to be made on site. As said before making plasma is a very lengthy process so condensing it into a small device would be difficult. 

Creating cold plasma on-site within a small device is feasible through the use of miniaturized plasma generation technology. Despite the device's small size, advancements in microplasma technology and compact plasma sources allow for plasma generation within confined spaces. This involves the integration of a miniaturized plasma source that utilizes techniques such as microdischarges, dielectric barrier discharges, or radiofrequency discharges. These sources are designed to fit within the compact design of the device. A small gas supply, typically air or a specific gas mixture, is introduced into the miniaturized plasma source to facilitate plasma generation. Safety measures are also incorporated to ensure user safety and control harmful byproducts. The device is engineered for continuous plasma generation during operation, eliminating the need for frequent plasma refills or replacements and providing users with the necessary plasma for effective hand disinfection.

If the device is intended for stationary use in bathrooms and is not meant to be portable, it can be designed to be powered by a reliable electrical source. Typically, the device would be configured to plug into a standard electrical outlet commonly found in bathrooms, ensuring a continuous and dependable source of power. Alternatively, for permanent installations in public or commercial bathrooms, it could be hardwired directly into the building's electrical system, eliminating the need for plugs and ensuring a constant power supply. To ensure uninterrupted operation in case of power outages, the device might incorporate backup power solutions like batteries or uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). These backup systems would guarantee that the device remains operational even during power interruptions. Additionally, it's crucial to consider energy efficiency in the device's design to minimize power consumption and reduce operating costs over time. 

Where would it be located? 

A device designed for on-site cold plasma hand disinfection could find strategic placement in a variety of settings where effective hand sanitation is necessary. Public restrooms, such as those in airports, shopping malls, restaurants, and transportation hubs, could feature these devices at entrances or exits to encourage users to disinfect their hands before leaving. Healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices, might benefit from placing these devices near entrances, waiting areas, and patient rooms to ensure that healthcare providers, patients, and visitors maintain proper hand hygiene. 

In addition to healthcare settings, educational institutions like schools, colleges, and universities could deploy these devices in classrooms, cafeterias, libraries, and other high-traffic areas to promote hand sanitation among students and staff. Office buildings could enhance workplace hygiene by installing these devices in lobbies, elevators, and common areas. Public transportation stations and terminals for buses, trains, and subways could also benefit from these devices to encourage passengers to disinfect their hands before and after using public transportation, contributing to a safer commuting experience. These are just a few examples of potential locations where these devices could play a vital role in maintaining hygiene and reducing the risk of disease transmission. There are also some safety and occupational issues, if we are using air then ozone and nitrogen are generated, so there needs to be a way that we can inhale them without it being harmful. 

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the innovative application of plasma technologies for hand sanitization presents a promising and sustainable alternative to traditional methods like soap and alcohol sanitizers. Plasma, a highly ionized and bacteria-free state of matter, can be generated on-site for real-time application, overcoming the challenge of storage due to its high energy and unstable nature. By adopting cold plasma or plasma-activated water, this technology can safely and effectively disinfect hands at temperatures comfortable for human touch. The proposed device, resembling a hand dryer in operation, would activate upon hand detection, enveloping the hands in a disinfecting plasma stream for a specified duration. This method not only bypasses the environmental impact associated with the production and disposal of traditional sanitizers but also offers a novel approach to maintaining hygiene. 

The implementation of such a device requires compact, efficient plasma generation technology and thoughtful consideration of safety and energy consumption. Ideally suited for public spaces like

restrooms, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and transportation hubs, this technology has the potential to revolutionize hand hygiene practices. By harnessing the power of plasma, we can not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also enhance public health safety in a world increasingly conscious of hygiene and disease prevention. The exploration and development of plasma-based hand sanitization devices thus represent a forward-thinking step in our continuous quest for innovative, eco-friendly, and effective hygiene solutions. 

Pros 

• Environmental sustainability
•  Efficiency against microorganisms
•  Advanced and innovative
•  Reduce chemical exposure
•  Production and disposable products
•  Customizable treatment settings
•  Motivation to sanitize your hands

Cons 

• Technical engineering challenges
•  public awareness
•  cost and maintenance
•  time-consuming and complex 
• Regulatory standard development
• A slight potential for UV radiation
• By-products of ozone and nitrogen 

 

Soap v.s. Alcohol sanitizers vs. Plasma technologies 

 

• Soap

How it works: Soap removes germs, viruses, and dirt from hands. Soap molecules have two ends: one that binds with water and one that binds with fat. The fat-binding end breaks down the lipid envelope of viruses and the cell membranes of bacteria, efficiently killing them, and then the mechanical action of washing hands with water removes them from the skin.

Effectiveness: Highly effective against a wide range of pathogens when used properly with water for at least 20 seconds.

Safety: Very safe for most users, with minimal risk of skin irritation for most skin types. Frequent use, however, can dry out skin, necessitating moisturizers.

Environmental Impact: Production and disposal contribute to environmental pollution, and significant water usage is required for effectiveness.

• Alcohol-based Sanitizers

How it works: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers work by inactivating germs on the skin through the denaturation of proteins. Alcohol concentrations of 60% to 95% are most effective.

Effectiveness: Very effective against most bacteria and viruses, but less effective against certain types of non-enveloped viruses and spores.

Safety: Generally safe for skin, though overuse can lead to dryness and irritation. There's also a risk of ingestion, especially by children, which can be harmful.

Environmental Impact: The production and disposal of plastic packaging contribute to environmental pollution. Alcohol production and evaporation can also contribute to VOC emissions.

• Plasma Technologies

How it works: Plasma technologies utilize ionized gas to generate reactive species that can effectively inactivate a wide range of microorganisms on surfaces or skin without the need for liquids or physical scrubbing.

Effectiveness: Demonstrated to be effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The effectiveness can vary based on the plasma generation method and the specific application.

Safety: When designed correctly, plasma devices are safe for human use, with minimal risk of harm. However, the long-term effects and safety of continuous exposure are still under investigation.

Environmental Impact: Plasma technologies have a low environmental impact, requiring minimal to no consumables and producing no wastewater or chemical waste. The primary environmental consideration is the energy consumption required to generate plasma.

Summary

• Soap is traditional, widely accessible, and effective but requires water and can contribute to environmental pollution.
• Alcohol-based sanitizers offer a convenient and effective alternative to soap and water, though they can be less effective against certain pathogens and contribute to skin dryness and environmental issues.
• Plasma technologies present an innovative and environmentally friendly method with promising efficacy and safety profiles, though accessibility, cost, and long-term safety data are considerations for widespread use.

Each method has its place in hygiene practices, with choices often guided by the specific context, 

availability, personal preference, and environmental considerations.

 

 

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-Chat GPT to generate some of the images 

-Help from Mounir Laroussi - an American physicist

(I emailed him my research and he gave me some feedback)

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have generously contributed their time and expertise this project a success. My family especially my Dad, gave me the initial idea for my project and provided very insightful feedback. Miss Bretner, the science fair organizer, for helping me and giving advice to fine-tune my project. Lastly, l want to thank Mounir Laroussi, an American physicist who gave me professional input on my project, which truly tied it all together. I am deeply thankful to everyone who helped me with this project, the support I received along the way has definitely made all my tireless nights seem worthwhile.