Photodynamic Inactivation of Infectious Agents

The photodynamic inactivation of poliovirus by use of the photoreactive dye methylene blue at pH 10 and monochromatic lights was investigated on a continuous flow basis. The photodynamic inactivation process was effective for virus inactivation in clarified wastewater and requires various unit operations that are inherent to both the tertiary treatment of secondary effluent for phosphorus and ammonia removal and for the physical-chemical treatment of sewage. The process can be used in existing physical-chemical waste treatment plants, secondary waste treatment plants where tertiary treatment for nutrient and improved carbon removals are of concern, and water treatment plants where the lime-softening process is used for water purification. Photodynamic inactivation rates for poliovirus using methylene blue at pH 10 were sensitive to heat during sensitization and subsequent irradiation.