Thermo Fisher Scientific has introduced the Aqua-Tec Preservation Cell, designed to help safeguard incubators from water-borne contaminants.
When placed into any CO2 incubator water pan or laboratory water bath, the device provides protection from waterborne microorganisms for up to six months. The 9.4cm cell self-regulates to maintain disinfecting concentration and effectiveness, regardless of water level, the company says, and is safe to handle without the need for harsh chemicals or special disposal protocols.
The cell uses a silver metal catalyst and oxygen in water to create reactive oxygen species (ROS) that attack organic species and molecules in the water, breaking them down with a micro-electric potential of 800 mV. By helping to keep water clear from microbial growth, the device is designed to reduce the need for manual cleaning and disinfection, resulting in increased productivity.
“Preventing growth of unwanted microbial contaminants is a key success factor in cell culture,” said Douglas Wernerspach, Senior Business Director, laboratory products division at Thermo Fisher Scientific. “The Aqua-Tec Water Preservation Cell provides a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to potentially toxic chemical germicides, delivering long-lasting efficacy, the assurance of regulatory compliance and simplified handling. Aqua-Tec can be a valuable tool in support of scientists' daily battle to maintain both the cleanliness of CO2 incubator humidification systems and elimination of biofouling of water baths.”
The cell was developed specifically for laboratory applications and designed to reduce the use and waste that is generated from traditional chemical disinfection methods. Each package contains four units, providing a total of two years of protection.
The product is only available in the UK, Ireland, Germany, France, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland and Iceland.
