Sterilization characteristics of the surfaces of agricultural products using active oxygen species generated by atmospheric plasma and UV light

Abstract

Agricultural products were sterilized by irradiation with active oxygen species produced by the combination of atmospheric plasma and UV light in ambient air. It was found that the surfaces of rice and lemons are sterilized after 20 min of irradiation. After the irradiation, the mold spores on the surface, although still viable, become unculturable. Treatment speed using the active oxygen species is higher than that using plasma or UV light alone. Infrared light spectra of the fruits surface indicate that there is no significant damage to the exocarp caused by the active oxygen species.