You are here

Robust Multi-Mode Sterilizer for Austere Environments

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Navy
Contract: N00014-06-M-0282
Agency Tracking Number: N061-075-0529
Amount: $69,960.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: N06-075
Solicitation Number: 2006.1
Timeline
Solicitation Year: 2006
Award Year: 2006
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): 2006-08-23
Award End Date (Contract End Date): 2007-05-23
Small Business Information
2851 Commerce Street
Blacksburg, VA 24060
United States
DUNS: 627132913
HUBZone Owned: Yes
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Patrick Cottler
 Principal Investigator
 (540) 552-5128
 submissions@lunainnovations.com
Business Contact
 Wendy Williams
Title: Director of Contracts
Phone: (540) 552-5128
Email: submissions@lunainnovations.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

Steam sterilization, or autoclaving, is the preferred method for eliminating the risk of cross infection through contaminated instruments and the only one recommended throughout the world by healthcare professionals including the W.H.O. (World Healthcare Organization) and C.D.C. (Center of Disease Control). At a pressure of 2 atmospheres, recommended temperatures for steam autoclave specifications is 121„aC in the US and 134„aC in Europe. Unfortunately, the ability to generate these levels of pressure and temperature are currently dependent on the availability of electrical power, which can be problematic for military hospitals in austere environments. Luna Innovations proposes to develop a system capable of effectively sterilizing medical instruments with or without electrical power. The focus of the Phase I program will be to demonstrate effective generation of pressure and temperature to sterilize contaminated material without electrical power. During the Phase II of the program, Luna will develop a full-scale integrated solid-state steam autoclave system for operation with or without electrical power. Luna has assembled the highly qualified, multidisciplinary team required for a successful program and has a history of bringing novel research from the laboratory to commercial markets. BENEFITS: Decontamination and sterilization of medical equipment in austere environments is vitally important in military hospitals. Luna¡¦s proposed system addresses this need with a multi-mode steam sterilizater that is not dependent on electrical power. This system is effective as a non-destructive, non-toxic method for sterilization in commercial applications such as pharmaceutical, medical, dental, food, and military activities of concern to civilian lives and national security. This system will be able to fulfill the sterilization needs during threats of biological warfare during power outages that might occur during such emergencies. It is possible that the developed system can be independent from solid-state sterilization systems and be portable for individual use and included in current first aid kits.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

US Flag An Official Website of the United States Government