Researchers simulated a superheated steam dishwasher, finding that it killed 99% of bacteria on a plate in just 25 seconds.Simulations show steam kills bacteria on a plate in just 25 seconds — without soap.
The model of an idealized dishwasher is represented by a box with solid side walls, a top opening, and a nozzle at the bottom. A plate, which is covered with a heat-resistant strain of bacteria, is placed directly above the nozzle. Once the plate reaches a certain threshold temperature in the simulation, the microorganisms can be considered inactivated.
The shock waves, created by the high velocity of the steam, are reflected at surfaces in the dishwasher. In the work, the team focused on bacteria. However, the shocks could be used to effectively remove food debris in the future.