A University of Southampton study has shown that an ultrasonic device can improve the cleaning of medical instruments and reduce contamination and risk of infection, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.
The device creates tiny bubbles that scrub surfaces. A stream of water generates ultrasound and bubbles that improve the cleaning power of water reducing the need for additives and heating.
Using cold water the device removed biological contamination, including brain tissue from surgical steel.
The research, published in the journal Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, was funded by the Royal Society Brian Mercer Award for Innovation.