Rapid reduction of Legionella pneumophila on stainless steel with zeolite coatings containing silver and zinc ions

Patricia Rusin, K. Bright, C. Gerba

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

37 Scopus citations

Abstract

Aims: To determine the rate of reduction of Legionella pneumophila by stainless steel surfaces with zeolite ceramic coatings containing 2.5% (w/w) silver (Ag) and 14% zinc (Zn) ions. Methods and Results: Stainless steel pans with and without Ag/Zn coatings were inoculated with solutions of Leg. pneumophila ATCC 33155 and incubated at 37°C. Survival was monitored using the spread-plate technique on selective buffered charcoal yeast extract agar. Significant reductions of Leg. pneumophila were effected by the Ag/Zn zeolite coatings within 2 h of exposure. Conclusions, Significance and Impact of the Study: Zeolite ceramic Ag/Zn coatings impart significant anti-Legionella properties to stainless steel surfaces. Coated stainless steel could be used in the manufacture of air ducts, condensation pans and intake and exhaust vents. These products have the potential to reduce numbers of Legionella in air-handling systems.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)69-72
Number of pages4
JournalLetters in Applied Microbiology
Volume36
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 2003

Keywords

  • Air quality
  • Disinfection
  • Legionella
  • Metals
  • Surface

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Rapid reduction of Legionella pneumophila on stainless steel with zeolite coatings containing silver and zinc ions'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this