title: Sterilization of bacteria by means of microwave heating.
abstract: Despite the simplicity and convenience of microwave heating, descriptions in the current literature of attempts to provide a thorough sterilization process have not been encouraging nor has any manufacturer of sterilization equipment introduced such a device to the market. Trials conducted at Providence Hospital using a commercial microwave oven operating at 2450 MHz resulted in a satisfactory sterilization process, that is, the destruction of heat-resisting spore forms (B. stearothermophilus), provided that the materials undergoing sterilization were placed in sealed containers with sufficient water present to provide steam during the heating process. Suggestions are made for further investigation involving the microwave spectrum of the molecule of dipicolinic acid as well as the possibilities of practical applications which could result in reducing hospital costs.
mesh_terms: D001419:Bacteria / Q000528:radiation effects*; D004219:District of Columbia; D006745:Hospital Bed Capacity, 300 to 499; D008872:Microwaves; D013170:Spores / Q000528:radiation effects; D013242:Sterilization / Q000379:methods*