Fraunhofer Institute for Process Engineering and Packaging IVVHigh humidity makes ozone an effective sterilization method
Chemical sterilization processes often require high temperatures and the storage of hazardous substances. In order to reduce these requirements while ensuring microbiological safety, Fraunhofer IVV is investigating the use of ozone generators for sterilizing the interiors of machines used in food filling processes.
Ozone has a strong sporicidal effect when combined with high humidity. The reactive gas can be generated by dielectric barrier discharge using ambient air. The aim of the O3Ster research project is to evaluate the suitability of this process for hygienic filling processes and to develop an energy-efficient, chemical-free sterilization concept.
Research into sterilization with ozone on a specially developed test bench
The focus is on analyzing key process parameters - ozone concentration, humidity, and temperature - and their influence on sporicidal efficacy. In addition, we are investigating material compatibility and potential residue formation. A specially designed test bench is intended to replicate the sterile area of aseptic filling systems and enable both experimental investigations and comparison with flow simulations. This ensures that the results can be transferred to real systems.
Fraunhofer IVV analyzes the sporicidal effect of ozone treatment
Together with TU Dresden (Dresden University of Technology), Fraunhofer IVV is investigating the technical and microbiological suitability of ozone for aseptic filling processes. TU Dresden is responsible for developing the test bench, performing flow simulations, and analyzing material compatibility. Fraunhofer IVV is conducting microbiological test series on a laboratory scale and at the test bench, evaluating sporicidal efficacy, and comparing various DBE-based ozone generators. We are also analyzing the formation and removal of possible residues.
Advantages of sterilization with ozone: Sustainability and efficiency
The insights gained from the project contribute to the further development of hygienic filling systems and strengthen the competitiveness of German mechanical and plant engineering through innovative solutions.
| Project term: | 2025 to 2027 |
| Project management / project funding: | Projektträger DLR (via Industrievereinigung für Lebensmitteltechnologie und Verpackung e.V. IVLV), Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy BMWE |
| Official title: | Einsatz von Plasmatechnologie zur ressourceneffizienten Sterilisation des Maschineninnenraums von hygienischen Abfüllanlagen (Use of plasma technology for resource-efficient sterilization of the interior of hygienic filling systems) |
| Funding program: | Program for the promotion of industrial joint research (IGF) by the BMWE based on the decision of the German Bundestag |
| Funding code: | 01IF24401N |
