EP3291845A1

EP3291845A1 - Decontamination device for a means of transportation

Info

Publication number: EP3291845A1
Application number: EP16725025.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Robert Landes; Volker Sigwarth
Original assignee: SKAN AG
Current assignee: SKAN AG
Priority date: 2015-05-05
Filing date: 2016-05-05
Publication date: 2018-03-14
Also published as: WO2016176786A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a decontamination device (2) for a means of transportation (1) having an operator space (10) and a transport cabin (11) separated therefrom by a partition wall (10), designed for the temporary accommodation of persons and/or goods. The purpose of the device (2) is the treatment of the transport cabin (11) with a decontaminant introduced into the transpcrt cabin (11). The device (2) is positioned in the means of transportation (1). At least one introduction element (7) for introducing the decontaminant leads into the transport cabin (11). For stocking and delivery of the liquid decontaminant to the at least one introduction element (7), a material module (S) is provided. In gas-permeable passages, which extend from the transport cabin (11) to the operator space (10), a co-acting first catalyst unit (21), or in each of the passages one each first catalyst unit (21) is used. All first catalyst units (21), or the one first catalyst unit (21), are/is gas-permeable toward the operator space (10), at least during the period of time, in which a critical concentration of the decontaminant is present in the transport cabin (11), and serves the purpose of splitting the decontaminant, which was introduced into the transport cabin (11) during a decontamination process, into non-critical components and to break the decontaminant down all the way to a non-critical residual concentration.

Description

Decontamination device for a means of transport

Field of application of the invention

The present invention relates to a decontamination device for a means of transport with an operator's room and a transport cabin separated therefrom and intended for the temporary accommodation of persons and / or goods. The purpose of the decontamination device is the treatment of the transport cabin with a decontamination agent introduced into the transport cabin. The decontamination device is positioned in the means of transport. At least one introduction element for introducing the decontamination agent opens into the transport cabin. For stocking and supplying the liquid decontamination agent to the at least one inlet element, a substance od od is provided. Here affected means of transport are cars, ships, airplanes and rail vehicles. Particularly typical means of transport are for the transport of patients certain ambulances, in which the minimization of the transmission risk of pathogens as protection for patients and Persona! is an essential requirement.

State of the art

US 2005/074 359 A1 relates to a method and a device for decontaminating the passenger cabin of aircraft by means of a connectable mobile device system for generating a mixture of air and decontaminant vapor, which is introduced into the pressurized passenger cabin via blowers and nozzles , In the rinsing phase, the air-steam mixture is discharged from the passenger cabin by means of injected purging air via a catalyst in the free atmosphere.

EP 1 888 128 B1 discloses an arrangement for decontaminating the interior of a medical vehicle by means of a decontamination agent introduced into the interior. An in-vehicle piping system initially includes a decontamination tube for introduction of antimicrobial vapor into the vehicle. An additional circulation pipe is intended for distributing air in the vehicle. A ventilation tube allows the antimicrobial

CONFIRMATION COPY Remove the steam from the vehicle. The piping system further includes an outlet tube for venting the air and vapor from the vehicle. The decontamination tube, the additional circulation tube and the ventilation tube are respectively arranged along the ceiling area and / or the side walls of the vehicle. A catalyst serves to decompose the antimicrobial vapor into non-critical constituents. By means of separate fans, air is introduced into the circulation pipe or into the ventilation pipe. The antimicrobial vapor is generated by a generator installed in the vehicle and preferably contains hydrogen peroxide [H2O2].

In DE 43 21 073 A1 a sterilization method and an associated device is proposed. The sterilization apparatus installed on a carriage includes a nozzle tube having a plurality of nozzles spaced apart from each other, drive means for changing the spraying angle of the nozzles, control means for controlling the spraying time, supply means for supplying disinfectant in a disinfectant supply passage of the nozzle pipe, at least one tank for receiving of the disinfectant and a control device for controlling the drive device. The cart can be positioned in any position, for example in a hospital, where the disinfectant can be sprayed automatically in all directions. The droplet size of the sprayed disinfectant is in the micrometer range, in order to effect a fine nebulization of the disinfectant and a uniform sterilization of the room.

DE 10 2010 047 190 A1 relates to a method and a ventilation or air conditioning unit for the disinfection of stationary and mobile rooms, especially in the health sector by using a nebulizable disinfectant. For example, ambulances and medical containers are considered mobile rooms. In a closed room, the ventilation or air-conditioning unit is operated in recirculation mode, the disinfectant is introduced into the airflow through a fogging device and the space is closed for a certain exposure time. The ventilation or air-conditioning unit automatically disinfects itself. The ventilation or air-conditioning unit has a storage container for the disinfectant, which is supplied via a Line system is connected to the nebulizer nozzles. A pump causes the solution of hydrogen peroxide and silver as a disinfectant to the nebulizer nozzles. In the pipe system, a quality sensor for monitoring the container contained in Vorratsbe disinfectant is arranged. Furthermore, a flow sensor and behind the pump, a pressure sensor are provided. These two sensors monitor the suction of disinfectant by the pump and the pressure sufficient for atomization. A controller is used to control the operation of the ventilation or air conditioning unit, including the fogger.

Object of the invention

In view of the prior art in decontamination devices in the relevant field of application here, the invention has for its object to propose a decontamination integrated in the transport for the treatment of temporary transport of persons and / or goods transport cabin, by means of an efficient surface decontamination can be realized. As a means of transport come in particular ambulance with a shielded from the transport cabin operator room, designed as a driver's cab, into consideration. In doing so, it must be ensured that installations in the transport cabin, including the electronic equipment, are only exposed to gentle influence.

Furthermore, the device should allow the implementation of a fully automated, monitored and reproducible decontamination process. Overall, it is important to improve the reliability and cost-effectiveness of such devices in relation to the expenditure on equipment and thereby to increase the operating efficiency of the means of transport used.

Overview of the invention

The decontamination device is designed for a means of transport with an operator room and one of them separated by a partition, intended for the temporary accommodation of persons and / or goods transport cabin. The purpose of the decontamination device is the treatment of the transport cabin with a decontamination agent introduced into the transport cabin. The decontamination device is positioned in the means of transport. At least one introduction element for introducing the decontamination agent opens into the transport cabin. For storing and supplying the liquid decontamination agent to the at least one inlet element, a fabric module is provided.

In gas-permeable passages, which extend from the transport cabin to the service room, a jointly acting first catalyst unit or in each of the passages in each case a first catalyst unit is used. All first catalyst units or a first catalyst unit is gas-permeable to the operator room at least during the period in which there is a critical concentration of the decontamination agent in the transport cabin and serves to transport the decontamination agent, which was introduced into the transport cabin during a decontamination process split uncritical components and degrade them to a non-critical residual concentration.

Specific embodiments of the invention are defined below: In the operator's room, a first measuring device is installed to determine the residual concentration of decontamination agent which triggers an alarm signal when the uncritical residual concentration is exceeded towards a dangerous concentration value and can be used to control the decontamination device. In the transport cabin, a second measuring device is installed to determine the temperature, humidity and concentration of decontamination agent, which can be used to control the decontamination device.

The accesses to the transport cabin, such as a tailgate, a side door and a window to be opened in the partition wall between the operator's room and the transport cabin are each provided with a status indicator which indicates the status of the respective access, namely open or closed and unlocked or locked, signal. The signals of the state detectors can be used to control the decontamination device. The at least one introduction element is a nebulizer nozzle, which is designed as a one- or two-substance nozzle. For storing and supplying the liquid decontamination agent to the at least one inlet element, a fabric module is provided. When using a two-fluid nozzle as an inlet element for generating a fabric mist, formed from the inlet element supplied and sprayed with compressed gas decontamination agent, a compressed gas source is provided for providing the compressed gas. The compressed gas source is already present in the means of transport or is an externally to be connected unit and has the shape of a compressor or is designed as a compressed gas cylinder. From the compressed gas source - in the form of a compressor - leads into the transport cabin, a suction line, which is intended to supply air to the compressor from the transport cabin. Advantageously, but optionally, a suction filter is installed in the suction line.

For the electric drive of fuel module and compressed gas source, a power source is present, which is already belonging to the transport accumulator or an additional battery or an externally to be attached installation.

A data terminal is installed as a separate device or forms part of an instrument cockpit of the means of transport and serves at least for controlling and monitoring of material module and compressed gas source. The data terminal is also usable:

for the status display of means of transport and decontamination device, namely state of charge of the power source, occupancy of the transport cabin, position of the entrances into the transport cabin and status of the decontamination device, i. Level of the decontamination agent in the storage container of the substance module, readiness report, phase progression and completion message; and or

- For controlling transport and decontamination device with respect to the phase of a decontamination process, as well as from the power source, position of the access to the transport cabin and fabric module.

The data terminal! is positioned directly in the operator room of the means of transport or installed on a mounting accessible from outside the means of transport. Preferably, the data terminal has an interface which allows a coupling with an externally set up of the transport operating module via a connecting line or a radio connection.

From the compressed gas source, a compressed gas line leads either directly to the at least one inlet element or initially extends to the fabric module and extends from here further as compressed gas line to the inlet element. The outlet from the compressed gas source is connected to a dehumidifier, from which extends the compressed gas line and a specific for the derivation of incurred condensate drainage.

The fabric module has a replaceable according to consumption new storage container filled with decontamination agent on. The storage container connected to the fabric module is positioned in an installation accessible from outside the means of transport or in the transport cabin or in an operator room. The storage container of the fabric module is provided as the disposable container containing the decontaminant.

The used decontamination agent:

- Has sporicidal effect and thereby causes at least a 3-log reduction;

- Preferably enters in aerosol form in the transport cabin;

is preferably hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] or nitrogen dioxide [NO2] or peroxyacetic acid [C2H4O3] or a mixture of hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] and peroxyacetic acid [C2H4O3]; and

For example, it is an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] and has a concentration in the range of 8% to 16%.

The at least one inlet element is arranged with the mouth in the transport cabin, wherein preferably more than one inlet element is provided in systematic positioning in the ceiling region of the transport cabin. For installation of several feed elements: - From the fabric module in each case a separate material line extends to the respectively associated inlet element and the respective inlet element extends a separate compressed gas line to the compressed gas source; or alternatively

- From the compressed gas source leads a compressed gas line to the fabric module and extend from the Stoffmodu! in each case a separate material line and in each case a separate Druckgasieitung to the respective inlet element.

As a component part of the decontamination device, a second catalyst unit is provided, wherein for carrying out a following on a decontamination phase rinsing phase:

- By means of the second catalyst unit, the decontamination agent, which was introduced into the transport cabin during the decontamination process, can be split into uncritical components and degraded to an uncritical residual concentration; and

- At least during the period in which there is a critical concentration of the decontamination agent in the transport cabin, the transport cabin through the second catalyst unit is constantly permeable to the passage of gas medium into the open atmosphere gas.

The second catalyst unit is associated with a first fan which extracts air from the transport cabin and which together with the second catalyst unit forms an exhaust air unit. Alternatively, for the extraction of air from the transport cabin and promotion by the second catalyst unit in the free atmosphere, instead of the first fan, a fan belonging to the vehicle can be used.

For carrying out a rinsing phase following a decontamination phase, a recirculation unit is provided, wherein:

the recirculation unit has a third catalyst unit for splitting the decontamination agent present in the transport cabin; and

the circulating air unit further comprises a second ventilator which discharges air from the transport cabin directly and through the third catalyst unit and recirculates air through the third catalyst unit. unit into the transport cabin or directly back into the transport cabin; or

- For the extraction of air from the transport cabin and the recirculating promotion in the transport cabin, instead of the second fan, a belonging to the transport fan is available; and preferably

- Are connected to the third catalyst unit and the second fan ducts for air guidance, the free mouths in the transport cabin are fluidly spaced from each other.

For the gas medium passing from the transport cabin through passages and the first catalyst unit into the operator space and for the gas medium reaching the free atmosphere through the second catalyst unit, it is defined:

- the uncritical concentration of undecomposed hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] as decontaminant is less than 0.5 ppm [ml / m ³ ], while a concentration greater than 0.5 ppm [ml / m ³ ] is considered critical; and

- The uncritical concentration of undegraded nitrogen dioxide [NO2] as decontaminant is less than 3.0 ppm [ml / m ³ ], while a concentration greater than 3.0 ppm [ml / m ³ ] is considered critical.

The uncritical concentration of undecomposed decontaminant is preferably defined as not more than 0.1 ppm [ml / m ³ ].

The first catalyst unit, and in each case preferably also the second and third catalyst unit, has at least one catalyst element, which consists of:

a support material formed of aluminum ceramics or activated carbon; and

a catalytically active component in the form of nanoparticles, formed from silver or silver oxide or a mixture of silver and silver oxide, applied to the carrier material by means of chemical plating.

The catalytically active component on at least one catalyst element is in the range of 0.05 percent by weight to 0.5 percent by weight, preferably 0.1 percent by weight, relative to the carrier material. That, at least a catalyst element has a catalytically active surface in the range of up to 320m ² per gram of material used, as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component on. Here, the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the material used, as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component, by the applied nanoparticles, not in relation to the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the support material alone, before the Order of nanoparticles.

In an alternative embodiment, the first catalyst unit and, if present, preferably also the second and third catalyst units have at least two different catalyst elements, the catalyst elements being such that their respective highest efficiency occurs during the splitting of the decontamination agent in different concentration ranges of the decontamination agent.

The at least two different catalyst elements of the catalyst unit are formed by:

- on identical carrier material! applied by chemical plating different catalytically active components; and or

- identical catalytically active component applied by means of chemical plating on different substrates.

A first catalyst element of the at least two different catalyst elements has aluminum ceramics or activated charcoal as carrier material, and manganese oxide or prussian blue [iron (III) hexacyanidoferrate (II / III)] in the form of nanoparticles is applied to the carrier material as the catalytically active component. On the other hand, a second catalyst element of the at least two different catalyst elements has aluminum ceramics or activated carbon as support material, and silver or silver oxide or a mixture of silver and silver oxide in the form of nanoparticles is applied to the support material as the catalytically active component.

The catalytically active component on the respective catalyst element is in the to the carrier material in the range of 0.05 percent by weight to 0.5 percent by weight, preferably with 0.1 percent by weight present. The respective catalyst element has a catalytically active surface in the range of up to 320m ² per gram of inserted material - as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component - on. In this case, the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the material used, as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component, by the applied nanoparticles - in relation to the specific surface mass [m ² ro grams] of the support material alone, before Order of nanoparticles - not downsized.

Manganese oxide or Prussian blue [iron (III) hexacyanidoferrate (II / III)] is used as a catalytically active component for a first catalyst element for the degradation of decontamination agent in the range of a first concentration. In contrast, silver or silver oxide or a mixture of silver and silver oxide is used as the catalytically active component for a second catalyst element for decomposing decontamination agent in the range of a second concentration, which is lower than the first concentration.

Brief description of the accompanying drawings

Show it:

Figure 1 - A transport, exemplified in the form of an ambulance, equipped with the inventive decontamination device for the treatment of the transport cabin, in three-dimensional representation; and

FIG. 2 shows the means of transport according to FIG. 1 with the decontamination device in an equipment that has been expanded in terms of apparatus, in a two-dimensional representation.

embodiment

With reference to the attached drawings, the detailed description of the decontamination device according to the invention for the treatment of the transport cabin of a means of transport, using the example of an ambulance, will be given below. - Il gens; this in addition with an equipment extended equipment.

The following definition applies to the entire further description. If reference numerals are included in a figure for the purpose of graphic clarity, but are not explained in the directly associated description text, reference is made to their mention in the preceding description of the figures. For the sake of clarity, the repeated designation of components in subsequent figures is usually dispensed with, as far as the drawing clearly shows that they are "recurring" components.

FIG. 1

The transport means 1 illustrated in an exemplary form of an ambulance is equipped with the inventive decontamination device 2 for the treatment of the transport cabin 11. The front area of the means of transport 1 is formed by the operator space 10 - namely the driver's cab -, to which the transport cabin 11 separated by a partition wall 17 adjoins, which is intended for temporary accommodation of persons and / or goods. The transport cabin 11 typically has a rear door 13, a side door 14 and an opening window 12 built into the partition 17 (see also Figure 2).

Essential components of the decontamination device 2 are arranged in the partition 17 first catalyst unit 21, the power source 3, the data terminal 4, the fabric module 5, the compressed gas source 6 and at least one Einlettelement 7 and the connecting power line 30, control line 40, pressure line 60 and 50 material line The purpose of the decontamination device 2 is that the transport cabin 11 is thoroughly prepared, in particular, before a new occupancy beyond a wiping cleaning.

From the power source 3, power lines 30 extend to the fabric module 5 and the compressed gas source 6 to feed their electric drive. The power source 3 may be an already belonging to the transport 1 accumulator or an additional battery or an externally connected installation. For storing and supplying the liquid decontaminant to the here present those two inlet elements 7 is the fabric module 5, which has a replaceable according to consumption new storage container filled with decontamination. The storage container connected to the fabric module 5 can be positioned in an installation accessible from the outside on the vehicle 1 or in the transport cabin 11 or in the operator room 10. Advantageously, the storage container of the fabric module 5 is provided as the disposable container containing the decontamination agent. From the material module 5, a material line 50 leads to the opening region 7 opening into the ceiling area of the transport cabin 11 and into its interior, wherein the material line 50 is branched in front of the inlet elements 7 and connected to each of the two inlet elements 7.

The inlet elements 7 are designed as nebulizer nozzles and procure as a single or two-fluid nozzle. When two-fluid nozzles are used as inlet elements 7, the pressurized gas source 6 is used to produce a fabric mist, which is produced from the inlet element 7 and sprayed with compressed gas. From the compressed gas source 6 extends a pressurized gas line 60 which branches off before the inlet elements 7 and at each the two inlet elements 7 leads. The compressed gas source 6 has the shape of a compressor or is designed as a compressed gas cylinder. From the compressed gas source 6 in the form of a compressor, a suction line 62 leads into the transport cabin 11, which is intended to supply air to the compressor from the transport cabin 11. Preferably, a suction filter 61 is installed in the suction pipe 62.

The data terminal 4 is installed as a separate device or forms part of the instrument cockpit of the means of transport 1, wherein the data terminal 4 serves at least for activating and monitoring the material module 5 and the compressed gas source 6. In addition, the data terminal 4 can also be used for the status display of the means of transport 1 and the decontamination apparatus 2. In particular, the state of charge of the power source 3, the occupancy of the transport cabin 11, the position of the doors 13, 14 and the window 12 on the means of transport 1 and the status of the decontamination apparatus 2, ie filling level of the decontamination agent in the storage container of the fabric module 5, can be signaled Ready signal before commissioning, the phase progression with supply of the decontamination agent, its contact time and the rinse and a completion message.

The data terminal 4 is positioned directly in the operator's room 10 of the means of transport 1 or installed on an accessible from the outside of the transport 1 installation. In a further embodiment, the data terminal 4 has an interface which allows a coupling with an externally set of the transport means 1 operating module via a connecting line or a radio connection.

In gas-permeable passages extending from the transport cab 11 to the operator room 10 - e.g. Channel or cable bushings - is a common-acting first catalyst unit 21 or in each of the passages each used a first catalyst unit 21. All first catalyst units 21 or a first catalyst unit 21 is gas-permeable to the service room 10 at least during the period in which there is a critical concentration of the decontamination agent in the transport cabin 11 and serves to remove the decontamination agent which is introduced into the decontamination process Transport cabin 11 introduced, split into non-critical components and degrade to a non-critical residual concentration. Thus, it is possible to carry out a decontamination process even while there are persons in the operator's room 10 of the means of transport 1, e.g. during a trip or a waiting period, so that the means of transport 1 again has a decontaminated transport cabin 11 and is ready for re-occupancy.

In the operator room 10, a first measuring device 47 is installed to determine the residual concentration of decontamination agent, which triggers an alarm signal when the uncritical residual concentration is exceeded towards a dangerous concentration value. In the transport cabin 11, a second measuring device 48 is installed to determine temperature, humidity and concentration of decontamination agent (see also FIG. Both measuring devices 47, 48 can be used to control the decontamination device 2. The accesses to the transport cabin 11, such as a rear door 13, a side door 14 and a window 12 to be opened in the partition wall 17 between the operator space 10 and the transport cabin 11, are each provided with a state detector 43-45 (see also FIG ), which signal the status of the respective access, namely open or closed and unlocked or locked. The signals of the state detector 43-45 are also available for controlling the decontamination device 2.

The used decontamination information medium:

- Has sporicidal effect and thereby causes at least a 3-log reduction;

- Preferably enters in aerosol form in the transport cabin 11;

In the simplest manner, after completing the decontamination phase for discharging the decontamination agent present in the transport cabin 11, the doors 13, 14 are kept open on the means of transport 1 in a rinsing phase for a sufficient time.

FIG. 2

This modified decontamination device 2 differs somewhat in the positioning of the devices and the guidance of the compressed gas line 60, which is not changed in the nature of the invention. In addition, the decontamination device 2 is now equipped with the exhaust unit 9 and the circulating air unit 8.

Now, the compressed gas line 60 extends from the compressed gas source 6 initially to the fabric module 5 and extends from here further as compressed gas line 60 to the two inlet elements 7, in turn, with division in front of the inlet elements 7 and then separate feeder. When installing a plurality of inlet elements 7, it can be advantageous for controlling and monitoring the introduction of the aerosolized decontamination agent into the transport cabin 11, in each case providing a separate material line 50 and a separate compressed gas line 60 to the respectively assigned inlet element 7 from the material module 5. If the compressed gas line 60 is not on the Stoffmodu! 5, but connected directly to the inlet elements 7, it is also possible to install a separate compressed gas line 60 for each inlet element 7. In addition, the outlet from the pressure gas source 6 can be connected to a dehumidifier 63, from which the one or more compressed gas lines 60 and a drainage line 64 intended for the discharge of condensate formed extend.

For the perfection of the decontamination device 2, a second catalyst unit 92 is provided as its apparatus component, wherein for carrying out a rinsing phase following a decontamination phase:

- By means of the second catalyst unit 92, the Dekontaminationsmitte !, Which was introduced during the decontamination process in the transport cabin 11, split into uncritical components and degradable to a non-critical residual concentration; and

- At least during the period in which there is a critical concentration of the decontamination agent in the transport cabin 11, this is constantly permeable to gas through the second catalyst unit 92 for discharging gas medium into the free atmosphere 99.

The second catalyst unit 92 is associated with a first fan 95 which extracts air from the transport cabin 11 and which together with the second catalyst unit 92 forms the exhaust air unit 9. Alternatively, instead of the first fan 95 for extracting air from the transport cabin 11 and conveying by the second catalyst unit 92 into the free atmosphere 99, a fan 1 belonging to the transport 1 can be used.

For carrying out a rinsing phase following a decontamination phase, a circulating air unit 8 can furthermore be installed, wherein: - The air circulation unit 8 has a third catalyst unit 83 for splitting the present in the transport cabin 11 Dekontaminationsmitteis; and

- The air circulation unit 8 further comprises a second fan 86, which serves the direct or by the third catalyst unit 83 leading suction of air from the transport cabin 11 and the recirculation of air through the third catalyst unit 83 into the transport cabin 11 or directly back into the transport cabin 11 ; or

- For the extraction of air from the transport cabin 11 and the recirculating promotion in the transport cabin 11, instead of the second fan 86, a transport means 1 belonging fan is available; and preferably

- Are connected to the third catalyst unit 83 and the second fan 86 channels for guiding air, the free mouths in the transport cabin 11 are fluidly spaced from each other.

For the gas medium passing from the transport cabin 11 through passages and the first catalyst unit 21 into the operator space 10 and for the gas medium reaching the free atmosphere 99 through the second catalyst unit 92, it is defined:

The first catalyst unit 21, and in each case preferably also the second and third catalyst unit 92, 83, has at least one catalyst element which consists of:

a support material formed of aluminum ceramics or activated carbon; and a catalytically active component in the form of nanoparticles, formed from silver or silver oxide or a mixture of silver and silver oxide, applied to the carrier material by means of chemical plating.

The catalytically active component on at least one catalyst element is in the range of 0.05 percent by weight to 0.5 percent by weight, preferably 0.1 percent by weight, relative to the carrier material. The at least one catalyst element has a catalytically active surface in the range of up to 320m ² per gram of inserted material, as a combination of carrier material plus applied catalytically active component on. Here, the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the material used, as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component, by the applied nanoparticles, not in relation to the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the support material alone, before the Order of nanoparticles.

In an alternative embodiment, the first catalyst unit 21, and in each case preferably also the second and third catalyst unit 92,83, at least two different catalyst elements, wherein the catalyst elements are such that their respective highest efficiency in the splitting of the decontamination in different Concentration areas of the decontaminant occurs.

The at least two different catalyst elements of the catalyst unit 21, 92, 83 are formed by:

- Deposited on identical support material by means of chemical plating different catalytically active components; and or

A first catalyst element of the at least two different catalyst elements has aluminum ceramics or activated charcoal as carrier material, and manganese oxide or prussian blue [iron (IIf) -hexacyanidoferrate (II / lill)] in the form of nanoparticles is formed on the carrier material as the catalytically active component. wear. On the other hand, a second catalyst element of the at least two different catalyst elements has aluminum ceramics or activated carbon as support material, and silver or silver oxide or a mixture of silver and silver oxide in the form of nanoparticles is applied to the support material as the catalytically active component.

The catalytically active component on the respective catalyst element is in the range of 0.05 percent by weight to 0.5 percent by weight, preferably 0.1 percent by weight, relative to the carrier material. The respective catalyst element has a catalytically active surface in the range of up to 320m ² per gram of inserted material - as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component - on. In this case, the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the material used, as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component, by the applied nanoparticles - in relation to the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the support material alone, before Order of nanoparticles - not downsized.

Claims

Patent claims

1. decontamination device (2) for a means of transport (1) with an operator's room (10) and one of them separated by a partition wall (17), intended for temporary accommodation of persons and / or goods transport cabin (11), wherein:

a) the purpose of the decontamination device (2) is the treatment of the transport cabin (11) with a decontamination agent introduced into the transport cabin (11);

b) the decontamination device (2) is positioned in the means of transport (1);

c) in the transport cabin (11) at least one inlet element (7) opens for introducing the decontamination agent;

d) for stocking and supplying the liquid decontamination agent to the at least one inlet element (7) a fabric module (5) is provided, characterized in that

e) in gas-permeable passages, which extend from the transport cabin (11) to the service room (10), a jointly acting first catalyst unit (21) or in each of the passages in each case a first catalyst unit (21) is inserted; in which

f) all first catalyst units (21) or a first catalyst unit (21) to the service room (10) is at least during the period in which a critical concentration of the decontamination agent in the transport cabin (11) is gas-permeable and serves to the decontamination agent, which was introduced during a decontamination process in the transport cabin (11), split into non-critical components and degrade to a non-critical residual concentration.

2. decontamination device (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that

a) a first measuring device (47) is installed in the operator room (10) for determining the residual concentration of decontamination means; and b) the first measuring device (47) triggers an alarm signal when the uncritical residual concentration is exceeded towards a dangerous concentration value and can be used to control the decontamination device (2).

3. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that

a) in the transport cabin (11) for determining temperature, humidity and concentration of decontamination agent, a second measuring device (48) is installed; and

b) the second measuring device (48) for controlling the decontamination device (2) is usable.

4. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that

a) the entrances to the transport cabin (11), e.g. a tailgate (13), a side door (14) and a window (12) to be opened in the partition wall (17) between the operator space (10) and the transport cabin (11) are each provided with a status detector (43-45) are those which signal the status of the respective access, namely open or closed and unlocked or locked; in which

b) the signals of the state detector (43-45) for controlling the decontamination device (2) can be used.

5. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that

a) the at least one inlet element (7) is a nebulizer nozzle, which is designed as a one- or two-fluid nozzle;

b) for storing and supplying the liquid decontamination agent to the at least one inlet element (7) a fabric module (5) is provided;

c) when using a two-fluid nozzle as an inlet element (7) for generating a fabric mist, formed from the inlet element (7) supplied and sprayed with compressed gas decontamination, to provide the compressed gas, a compressed gas source (6) is present; d) the compressed gas source (6) is already present in the means of transport (1) or is an aggregate to be connected externally;

e) the compressed gas source (6) has the shape of a compressor or is designed as a compressed gas cylinder;

f) from the compressed gas source (6), in the form of a compressor, into the transport cabin (11) a suction line (62) which is intended to supply air to the compressor from the transport cabin (11); and preferably g) a suction filter (61) is installed in the suction line (62).

6. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that

a) for the electrical drive of material module (5) and compressed gas source (6) a current source (3) is present; and

b) the power source (3) is already an accumulator belonging to the means of transport (1) or an additional battery or an externally connected installation.

7. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of Ansprüc e 1 to 6, characterized in that a data terminal (4) is installed as a separate device or forms part of a Instrument Cockpit of the transport means (1), wherein the data terminal (4):

a) at least for driving and monitoring of the material module (5) and the compressed gas source (6) is used; and also usable for:

ba) status display of means of transport (1) and decontamination device (2), namely state of charge of the power source (3), occupancy of the transport cabin (11), position of the entrances to the transport cabin (11) and status of the decontamination device (2), i. Level of the decontamination agent in the storage container of the substance module (5), ready message, phase history and completion message; and or

bb) control of means of transport (1) and decontamination device (2) with respect to the phase of a decontamination process, as well as of power source (3), position of the access in the transport cabin (11) and fabric module (5).

8. decontamination device (2) according to claim 7, characterized in that the data rrninal (4):

a) is positioned directly in the operator space (10) of the means of transport (1) or is installed on an installation accessible from the outside at the means of transport (1); and preferably:

b) has an interface which allows a coupling with an externally of the means of transport (1) established operating module via a connecting line or a radio connection.

9. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that

a) from the compressed gas source (6) either a compressed gas line (60) leads directly to the at least one inlet element (7) or initially to the substance od ul (5) and from here further as compressed gas line (60) to the inlet element (7) runs; and

b) the outlet from the compressed gas source (6) is connected to a dehumidifier (63) from which extends the compressed gas line (60) and a certain for the derivation of incurred condensate drainage pipe (64).

10. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that

a) the fabric module (5) has a replaceable according to consumption new storage container, filled with decontamination, having; in which:

b) the storage container connected to the fabric module (5) is positioned in an installation accessible from outside the transport means (1) or in the transport cabin (11) or in an operator room (10); and

c) the storage container of the fabric module (5) is provided as the decontaminant containing disposable container.

11. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the decontamination agent used: a) has sporicidal activity and thereby causes at least a 3-log reduction; b) preferably in aerosol form in the transport cabin (11) passes;

c) is preferably hydrogen peroxide [H2O2J or nitrogen dioxide [NO2] or peroxyacetic acid [C2H4O3] or a mixture of hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] and peroxyacetic acid [C2H4O3]; and

d) is, for example, an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] and has a concentration in the range of 8% to 16%.

12. decontamination device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that

a) the at least one inlet element (7) is arranged with the mouth in the transport cabin (11), wherein preferably more than one inlet element (7) in systematic positioning in the ceiling region of the transport cabin (11) is provided; and:

b) when installing several inlet elements (7):

ba) extending from the fabric module (5) each have a separate material line (50) to the respectively associated inlet element (7) and from the respective inlet element (7) a separate compressed gas line (60) to the compressed gas source (6); or alternatively

bb) from the compressed gas source (6) a compressed gas line (60) to the fabric module (5) and extending from the fabric module (5) each have a separate material line (50) and a separate compressed gas line (60) to the respective inlet element (7).

13. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that a second catalyst unit (92) is provided as its apparative component; wherein, for carrying out a rinsing phase following a decontamination phase:

a) by means of the second catalyst unit (92) the decontamination agent, which was introduced into the transport cabin (1) during the decontamination process, dissolvable into non-critical components and degradable to a non-critical residual concentration; and b) at least during the period in which there is a critical concentration of the decontamination agent in the transport cabin (11), the transport cabin (11) through the second catalyst unit (92) constantly gas-permeable to the release of gas medium into the free atmosphere (99) ,

14. decontamination device (2) according to claim 13, characterized in that

a) the second catalyst unit (92) is assigned a first fan (95) which extracts air from the transport cabin (11) and together with the second catalyst unit (92) forms an exhaust air unit (9); or

b) for the extraction of air from the transport cabin (11) and promotion by the second catalyst unit (92) in the free atmosphere (99), instead of the first fan (95), a vehicle belonging to the (1) fan is available.

15. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that for carrying out a subsequent to a decontamination phase rinsing phase, a recirculation unit (8) is provided, wherein:

a) the recirculation unit (8) has a third catalyst unit (83) for splitting the decontamination agent present in the transport cabin (11);

b) the recirculation unit (8) further comprises a second fan (86) leading to the direct or by the third catalyst unit (83) leading suction of air from the transport cabin (11) and the recirculation of air through the third catalyst unit (83) the transport cabin (11) or directly back into the transport cabin (11) is used; or

c) for the suction of air from the transport cabin (11) and the recirculating promotion in the transport cabin (11), instead of the second fan (86), a transport means (1) belonging fan is available; and preferably

d) to the third catalyst unit (83) and the second fan (86) channels are connected to the air duct, the free mouths in the transport cabin (11) are fluidly spaced from each other.

16. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that

a) for the from the transport cabin (11) passing through passages and the first catalyst unit (21) in the operator space (10) gas medium; and b) for the gas medium entering the free atmosphere (99) through the second catalyst unit (92);

c) the non-critical concentration ppm [/ m ³ ml] is defined of undegraded hydrogen peroxide [H2O2] is smaller than decontaminant than 0.5, while a concentration greater than 0.5 ppm [m ³ ml /] applies defined as critical;

d) the uncritical concentration of undecomposed nitrogen dioxide [NO2] is defined as a decontamination agent smaller than 3.0 ppm [ml / m ³ ], while a concentration greater than 3.0 ppm [ml / m ³ ] is defined as critically defined; preferably:

e) the uncritical concentration of undecomposed decontaminant is defined as not more than 0.1 ppm [ml / m ³ ].

17. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that

a) the first catalyst unit (21), and in each case preferably also the second and third catalyst unit (92, 83), has at least one catalyst element which consists of:

b) a carrier material formed from aluminum ceramics or activated carbon; and c) a catalytically active component in the form of nanoparticles, formed from silver or silver oxide or a mixture of silver and silver oxide, applied to the carrier material by means of chemical plating.

18. decontamination device (2) according to claim 17, characterized in that

a) the catalytically active component is present on at least one catalyst element in relation to the support material in the range of 0.05 weight percent to 0.5 weight percent, preferably at 0.1 weight percent;

b) the at least one catalyst element has a catalytically active surface in the range of up to 320m ² per gram of material used, as a combination of carrier plus applied catalytically active component; and

c) is the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the material used, as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component, by the applied nanoparticles, in relation to the specific surface mass [m ² per gram] of the support material alone, before the application of Nanoparticles, not downsized.

19. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the first catalyst unit (21), and in each case preferably also the second and third catalyst unit (92,83), at least two different catalyst elements, wherein the catalyst elements are such that their respective highest efficiency occurs during the splitting of the decontamination agent in different concentration ranges of the decontamination agent.

20. decontamination device (2) according to claim 19, characterized in that

a) the at least two different catalyst elements of the catalyst unit (21, 92, 83) are formed by:

b) different catalytically active components applied to identical carrier material by means of chemical plating; and or

c) identical catalytically active component applied to various substrates by means of chemical plating; in which:

d) a first catalyst element of the at least two different catalyst elements as support material aluminum ceramic or activated carbon, and on the support material as catalytically active component manganese oxide or Prussian blue [iron (III) hexacyanidoferrat (ll / llll)] is applied in the form of nanoparticles; and

e) a second catalyst element of the at least two different catalyst elements as support material aluminum ceramic or activated carbon, and on the carrier material as the catalytically active component silver or silver oxide or a mixture of silver and silver oxide in the form of nanoparticles is applied.

21. decontamination device (2) according to claim 20, characterized in that

a) the catalytically active component is present on the respective catalyst element in relation to the support material in the range from 0.05 weight percent to 0.5 weight percent, preferably at 0.1 weight percent;

b) the respective catalyst element has a catalytically active surface in the range of up to 320m ² per gram of inserted material - as a combination of support material plus applied catalytically active component - has; and

22. decontamination device (2) according to at least one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that

a) manganese oxide or Prussian blue [iron (II) hexacyanidoferrate (III / III)] is used as catalytically active component for a first catalyst element for decomposing decontamination agent in the range of a first concentration; and

b) silver or silver oxide or a mixture of silver and silver oxide as a catalytically active component for a second catalyst element for decomposing decontamination agent in the range of a second concentration, which is lower than the first concentration, is used.