Xenon flash light for sterilizing packaging materials in VDMA class V aseptic filling systems

Sterilization with xenon flash light offers advantages

Aseptic filling systems enable contamination-free processing and filling of food products. The packaging materials are usually sterilized chemically in combination with heat (e.g., with hydrogen peroxide or peracetic acid). However, these established processes have specific disadvantages, such as damage to heat-sensitive materials or the risk of chemical residues in the end product.

The pulsed light process, which is based on intense xenon flash light, represents a promising alternative. This technology has already proven itself in hygienic filling systems of VDMA Class IV, especially for acidic or chilled products. However, its transfer to VDMA Class V aseptic filling systems, where even particularly resistant endospores must be reliably inactivated, has not yet been sufficiently investigated.

Suitability test of xenon flash lighting for sterilization in aseptic filling systems

The main objective of the project is to evaluate the effectiveness of the xenon flash process for sterilizing packaging materials in VDMA Class V aseptic food filling plants, while identifying the specific challenges and limitations of the technology. We are investigating the extent to which the technology is capable of reliably inactivating resistant endospores, particularly those of Clostridium and Bacillus species.

We also take into account potential factors that influence sterilization efficiency, such as shadow effects and complex packaging geometries. Through systematic test series and the targeted correlation of test organisms with relevant target germs such as Clostridium botulinum, we derive well-founded recommendations for the industrial use of xenon flash technology. These investigations form the basis for evaluating the suitability of the process for packaging sterilization in demanding hygienic applications.

Fraunhofer IVV's many years of experience in microbiological validation

We are conducting the project in collaboration with industry partners who are supporting us with loaned equipment and their practical expertise.

With its many years of experience in microbiological validation and the development of sterilization processes, Fraunhofer IVV is contributing comprehensive and in-depth expertise to the research project. This includes, in particular, the development of standardized test methods and the performance of microbiological challenge tests to validate sterilization efficiency. Close cooperation with companies in the fields of hygienic filling technology and xenon flash technology ensures that the research results achieved are implemented in industrial applications in a practical manner.