WO2022054466A1 - Irradiation equipment, plasma irradiation device, and irradiation tube - Google Patents

Abstract

This irradiation equipment (10) comprises: an electrode that generates plasma by voltage being applied; and an introduction path (3) that communicates with an irradiation port (1c) that irradiates activated gas on an irradiation object, and extends from the tip of the irradiation port (1c) side of the electrode to the irradiation port (1c). The introduction path (3) has a reduced diameter part (3B) in which the diameter becomes smaller toward the guiding direction in which the activated gas is guided to the irradiation object, and has a non-conductive part constituted by a non-metal material on at least a portion of an inner surface (3b) of the reduced diameter part (3B).

Description

Irradiation equipment, plasma irradiation device, irradiation tube

The present invention relates to an irradiation device, a plasma irradiation device provided with the irradiation device, and an irradiation tube.
This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-153089 filed in Japan on September 11, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Conventionally, for example, a plasma irradiation device for medical use such as dental treatment is known. The plasma irradiation device heals the affected area (irradiation target) such as a wound by irradiating the affected area with plasma or an active gas. The active gas is generated by plasma at the discharge portion in the irradiation device of the plasma irradiation device. The plasma irradiation device blows out the short-lived active gas generated in the discharge portion from the tip of the irradiation device toward the irradiation target by a gas flow. In order to promote healing of the irradiated object, it is necessary to efficiently deliver the generated active gas to the affected area.
Various shapes have been studied for the nozzle provided at the tip of the irradiation device of the plasma irradiation device (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to the invention of Patent Document 1, plasma can be irradiated depending on the situation of the irradiation target.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2013-128681

In the plasma irradiation device, the active gas is directed to the irradiation target by lengthening the nozzle to bring the irradiation port at the tip of the nozzle closer to the irradiation target, or by reducing the opening diameter of the irradiation port at the tip of the nozzle to increase the ejection speed of the active gas. Is thought to be efficiently delivered to the affected area.
However, in the plasma irradiation device, if the nozzle is simply lengthened or the opening diameter of the irradiation port is reduced, there is a problem that the number of active species in the active gas is reduced.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and is an irradiation device capable of increasing the density of active species contained in the active gas irradiated to the irradiation target, a plasma irradiation device provided with the irradiation device, and an irradiation device. It is an object of the present invention to provide an irradiation tube used for an irradiation instrument.

As a result of diligent studies by the present inventors, if the inner surface of the flow path provided in the irradiation apparatus and in contact with the active gas is made of metal, the active gas generated by the plasma contains charged particles, and therefore the active gas. It was found that when the gas comes into contact with the metal, it is inactivated and the amount of active species transported to the subject is reduced.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following aspects.
[1] An electrode that generates plasma by applying a voltage and
It is provided with an introduction path that communicates with the irradiation port that irradiates the irradiation target with the active gas and extends from the tip of the electrode on the irradiation port side to the irradiation port.
The introduction path has a diameter-reduced portion whose diameter becomes smaller in the lead-out direction in which the active gas is led out to the irradiation target.
An irradiation instrument having a non-conductive portion made of a non-metallic material on at least a part of the inner surface of the reduced diameter portion.
[2] Further, an irradiation tube having the irradiation port is provided.
The irradiation tube has a detachable attachment / detachment mechanism.
The irradiation device according to [1], wherein the reduced diameter portion is formed in a flow path inside the irradiation tube.
[3] The electrical resistivity of the non-metal material is preferably ¹⁰⁶ Ωm or more and 10 ²⁵ Ωm or less, preferably 10 ¹¹ Ωm or more and 10 ²⁵ Ωm or less, and more preferably 10 ¹⁴ Ωm or more and 10 ²⁵ Ωm or less. The irradiation device according to [1], which is preferable.
[4] The irradiation device according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein at least the inner surface of the reduced diameter portion is made of a non-metal material.
[5] It has an outer cylinder member that covers the plasma generating portion including the electrode, and an irradiation tube that protrudes from the outer cylinder member and leads out the active gas to the irradiation target.
The irradiation device according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the introduction path includes a flow path inside the irradiation tube.
[6] The irradiation device according to [5], wherein the irradiation tube is bent.
[7] The irradiation device according to [5] or [6], wherein the irradiation tube has a detachable attachment / detachment mechanism, and the attachment / detachment mechanism is a mechanism that is detachable from the outer cylinder member.
[8] The plasma generating portion includes a tubular dielectric, an internal electrode arranged in the tubular dielectric and having a surface exposed to a plasma generating gas, and an external electrode arranged on the outer periphery of the internal electrode. Have and
The irradiation device according to any one of [5] to [7], wherein the outer diameter of the internal electrode is larger than the inner diameter of the reduced diameter portion.
[9] The irradiation device according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the inner diameter of the introduction path is larger at the rear end than at the tip.
[10] The irradiation device according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the inner diameter of the introduction path gradually decreases from the rear end to the tip.
[11] The irradiation device according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the inner diameter of the introduction path is reduced from the rear end to the tip.
[12] One of [1] to [11], wherein 50% or more, preferably 80% or more, and most preferably 100% of the total area of the inner surface of the reduced diameter portion is covered with the non-conductive portion. The irradiation device described.
[13] It has a cowling (housing) including a head portion and a body portion, and has a cowling (housing).
The irradiation port is provided on the tip end side of the head portion, and is provided.
The electrode is housed in the body portion, and the electrode is housed in the body portion.
The irradiation device according to any one of [1] to [12], wherein at least a part of the introduction path is provided in the head portion.
[14] A plasma irradiation device comprising the irradiation device according to any one of [1] to [13].
[15] An electrode that generates plasma by applying a voltage and
It is provided with an introduction path that communicates with the irradiation port that irradiates the irradiation target with the active gas and extends from the tip of the electrode on the irradiation port side to the irradiation port.
The introduction path has a diameter-reduced portion whose diameter becomes smaller in the lead-out direction in which the active gas is led out to the irradiation target.
An irradiation tube used for an irradiation instrument, which has a non-conductive portion made of a non-metal material on at least a part of the inner surface of the reduced diameter portion.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an irradiation device capable of increasing the density of active species contained in the active gas irradiated to the irradiation target, a plasma irradiation device provided with the irradiation device, and an irradiation tube.

The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. The irradiation device which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention is schematically shown, and it is sectional drawing of the plane along the axis of the irradiation device. It is a schematic diagram which shows the plasma irradiation apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the plasma irradiation apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the measurement result of the density | density of the hydroxyl radical contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port in an Example and a comparative example. It is a figure which shows the measurement result of the density of the singlet oxygen contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port in an Example and a comparative example. It is a figure which shows the measurement result of the density of the singlet oxygen contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port in an Example and a comparative example.

Hereinafter, the irradiation device according to the embodiment of the present invention and the plasma irradiation device including the irradiation device will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the drawings used in the following description are shown by enlarging the characteristic portions for convenience, and the dimensional ratios and the like of each component may differ from the actual ones.
Further, the materials, dimensions, etc. exemplified in the following description are examples, and the present invention is not limited thereto, and can be appropriately changed without changing the gist thereof.

The irradiation device of the present invention is a device that generates plasma and irradiates the irradiation target with the active gas generated by the generated plasma from the irradiation port. When the active gas containing the active species generated by the plasma collides with the metal wall surface, it is considered that electrons and the like are trapped and the concentration of the active species decreases.
In the present specification, the active gas means a gas having high chemical activity including any one of an active species such as a radical, an excited atom, an excited molecule, an electron, and an ion.

[Irradiation equipment]
1 to 5 schematically show an irradiation device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is a cross-sectional view (longitudinal cross section) of a surface of the irradiation device along an axis.
As shown in FIG. 1, the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment has an electrode (internal electrode 6, external electrode 7) that generates plasma by applying a voltage, and an irradiation port 1c that irradiates an irradiation target with an active gas. It is provided with an introduction path 3 extending from the tip of the electrode on the irradiation port 1c side to the irradiation port 1c. The irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment includes a long cowling 1 (housing) and the electrodes (internal electrode 6, external electrode 7), and plasma is generated by applying a voltage through the electrodes. The plasma generating unit 2 is provided with an introduction path 3 for guiding the active gas generated by the plasma generating unit 2 to the irradiation port 1c.

The cowling 1 includes a cylindrical body portion 1a and a head portion 1b that closes the tip of the body portion 1a. The body portion 1a incorporates the plasma generating portion 2. The body portion 1a is not limited to a cylindrical shape, but may be a polygonal cylinder such as a square cylinder, a hexagonal cylinder, or an octagonal cylinder.
The head portion 1b has an irradiation port 1c at the tip thereof, which irradiates the irradiation target with an active gas. The head portion 1b has a part of the introduction path 3 extending in the pipe axis O1 direction (diameter-reduced portion 3B of the introduction path 3) inside. The pipe shaft O1 is a pipe shaft of the body portion 1a.
The body portion 1a may be provided with an operation switch 4 (operation portion) on the outer peripheral surface.

As shown in FIG. 1, the plasma generating unit 2 includes a tubular dielectric 5 (dielectric), an internal electrode 6, and an external electrode 7.
The tubular dielectric 5 is a cylindrical member extending in the direction of the tube axis O1. The tubular dielectric 5 is a region extending in the direction of the tube axis O1 and including the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7, and has a flow path 8 inside through which the plasma generating gas and the active gas generated by the plasma pass. .. The flow path 8 and the introduction path 3 communicate with each other. The introduction path 3 communicates with the irradiation port 1c that irradiates the irradiation target with the active gas, and the tip of the electrode (internal electrode 6 or external electrode 7. For example, the internal electrode 6 in FIG. 1) on the irradiation port 1c side (for example). In FIG. 1, it is a flow path extending from the tip 6a) of the internal electrode 6 to the irradiation port 1c. The tube shaft O1 of the tubular dielectric 5 is the same as the tube shaft O1 of the cowling 1. The introduction path 3 is provided inside the head portion 1b of the cowling 1 so as to extend in the direction of the pipe axis O1. The flow path 8 is the tip of the electrode (internal electrode 6 or external electrode 7. for example, the internal electrode 6 in FIG. 1) on the irradiation port 1c side inside the body portion 1a of the cowling 1 (for example, the internal electrode in FIG. 1). It is provided on the rear end side from the tip 6a) of 6. The introduction path 3 does not clarify the location, but shows a structure that surrounds the space that communicates the plasma generating portion 2 and the irradiation port 1c.
The plasma generating unit 2 includes a tubular dielectric 5, an internal electrode 6 arranged inside the tubular dielectric 5 and having a surface exposed to a plasma generating gas, and an external electrode 7 arranged on the outer periphery of the internal electrode 6. Has. In other words, the plasma generating unit 2 includes an internal electrode 6 arranged in the flow path 8. The internal electrode 6 is a substantially columnar member extending in the direction of the tube axis O1. The internal electrode 6 is separated from the inner surface of the tubular dielectric 5. The internal electrode 6 has a surface exposed to the plasma generating gas. The outer diameter d1 of the internal electrode 6 is larger than the diameter d2 of the reduced diameter portion 3B of the introduction path 3 (the inner diameter thereof when the head portion 1b is regarded as a pipe). Here, the ratio of d1 to d2 (d1 / d2) is preferably 0.1 or more and 100 or less, more preferably 1 or more and 10 or less, and further preferably 3 or more and 7 or less. When this ratio d1 / d2 is within the above range, the active gas can be delivered to the affected area more efficiently to the irradiation target.
A part of the outer peripheral surface of the tubular dielectric 5 is provided with an external electrode 7 along the internal electrode 6. The external electrode 7 is an annular electrode that orbits along the outer peripheral surface of the tubular dielectric 5.
The tubular dielectric 5, the internal electrode 6, and the external electrode 7 are located concentrically with the tube axis O1 as the center.

In the present embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the internal electrode 6 and the inner peripheral surface of the external electrode 7 face each other with the tubular dielectric material 5 interposed therebetween. The region formed by the outer peripheral surface of the internal electrode 6 facing the tubular dielectric 5 and the inner peripheral surface of the external electrode 7 is the discharge portion 2A.

In the present embodiment, the diameter of the introduction path 3 is toward the first introduction path 3A having the same diameter as the flow path 8 and the lead-out direction (direction from the flow path 8 toward the introduction path 3) for leading the active gas to the irradiation target. Has a reduced diameter portion (second introduction path) 3B having a smaller diameter. The tip of the irradiation device 10 on the lead-out direction side is the tip of the irradiation device 10 (cowling 1), and the opposite side thereof is the rear end of the irradiation device 10 (cowling 1).
Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the diameter of the reduced diameter portion 3B may be larger at the rear end than at the tip. In this example, due to the wall extending inward at the tip of the reduced diameter portion 3B, the inner diameter d5 of the irradiation port 1c is larger than the diameter d4 of the rear end of the reduced diameter portion 3B (the end surface of the head portion 1b on the flow path 8 side). It's getting smaller. That is, the diameter d4 at the rear end of the reduced diameter portion 3B is larger than the diameter d5 at the tip (irradiation port 1c) of the reduced diameter portion 3B. Here, the ratio of d4 to d5 (d4 / d5) is preferably 1 to 100 or less, more preferably 1 to 10 or less, and further preferably 1 to 5 or less. When this ratio d4 / d5 is within the above range, the active gas can be delivered to the affected area more efficiently to the irradiation target.
Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the diameter of the reduced diameter portion 3B may be gradually reduced from the rear end to the tip. In this example, the reduced diameter portion 3B has a first reduced diameter portion 3B1, a second reduced diameter portion 3B2, and a third reduced diameter portion 3B3 in order from the rear end to the tip end. That is, the diameter of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 is larger than the diameter of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2, and the diameter of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2 is larger than the diameter of the third reduced diameter portion 3B3. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the case where the reduced diameter portion 3B is composed of three portions gradually decreasing from the rear end to the tip end is illustrated, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. In the present embodiment, the reduced diameter portion 3B may be composed of two or four or more portions that gradually decrease from the rear end to the front end.
Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the diameter of the reduced diameter portion 3B may be reduced from the rear end toward the tip. That is, the reduced diameter portion 3B may have a tapered shape. In the reduced diameter portion 3B, the diameter d6 at the rear end of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 is the largest, and the diameter d7 at the tip of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2 (irradiation port 1c) is the smallest. Here, the ratio of d6 to d7 (d6 / d7) is preferably 1 to 100 or less, more preferably 1 to 10 or less, and further preferably 1 to 5 or less. When this ratio d6 / d7 is within the above range, the active gas can be delivered to the affected area more efficiently to the irradiation target.

Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the reduced diameter portion 3B is provided on the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 having a tapered shape that reduces the diameter from the rear end toward the tip, and on the tip side of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1. It has a second diameter-reduced portion 3B2 having a constant diameter along the pipe axis O1 direction. In this example, at the base end 1e, the diameter of the first introduction path 3A and the diameter of the reduced diameter portion 3B are equal.

In the present embodiment, the plasma generating unit 2 generates plasma by a dielectric barrier discharge.
The plasma generation unit 2 generates plasma using, for example, nitrogen.

The plasma generating unit 2 can be separated from the cowling 1. The plasma generating unit 2 is, for example, pulled out from the cowling 1 in the direction of the tube axis O1. For example, after the cowling 1 is disassembled into a body portion 1a and a head portion 1b, the plasma generating portion 2 may be configured so that the plasma generating portion 2 is pulled out to the front side with respect to the body portion 1a (note that the tube). The head portion 1b side is the front side and the body portion 1a side is the rear side along the axis O1 direction).
For example, when the plasma generating unit 2 is damaged, a new plasma generating unit 2 can be attached to the cowling 1 after the plasma generating unit 2 is separated from the cowling 1. At this time, the new plasma generating unit 2 can be inserted into the cowling 1 in the direction of the tube axis O1.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 5, the irradiation device 10 may have an outer cylinder member 9 that covers the plasma generating portion 2.
The outer cylinder member 9 is fitted to the cowling 1 from the outside. The outer cylinder member 9 is integrally provided with a portion that covers the body portion 1a of the cowling 1 and a portion that covers the head portion 1b of the cowling 1. The outer cylinder member 9 is detachably attached to the cowling 1. In addition, in order to improve the detachability of the outer cylinder member 9, an uneven portion may be provided on the inner surface of the outer cylinder member 9. By providing the uneven portion, the contact area between the outer cylinder member 9 and the cowling 1 can be reduced, and the frictional resistance at the time of attachment / detachment can be reduced.

The material of the body portion 1a is preferably a material having an insulating property from the viewpoint of insulating the external electrode 7. The body portion 1a may have a multilayer structure having an insulating material and a layer of a metal material on the surface thereof.
The size of the body portion 1a is not particularly limited, and can be a size that can be easily grasped by fingers.

The material of the head portion 1b is not particularly limited and may or may not have an insulating property. The material of the head portion 1b is preferably a material having excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance. Examples of the material having excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance include metal and non-metal materials such as stainless steel. The materials of the body portion 1a and the head portion 1b may be the same or different.

In the present embodiment, at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B has a non-conductive portion made of a non-metal material.
The entire head portion 1b may be a non-conductive portion made of a non-metal material, and a non-conductive portion made of a non-metal material is provided on at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B in the head portion 1b. You may have. Here, having a non-conductive portion at least partially means that 50% or more of the total area of the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B is covered with the non-conductive portion. Further, in order to surely obtain the effect described later, it is preferable that 80% or more of the total area of the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B is covered with the non-conductive portion, and 100% is covered with the non-conductive portion. Most preferably. The thickness of the non-conductive portion is preferably 1 nm or more and 10 mm or less, more preferably 1 μm or more and 5 mm or less, and most preferably 0.5 μm or more and 2 mm or less.

The electrical resistivity of the non-metallic material is preferably 10 ⁶ Ωm or more and 10 ²⁵ Ωm or less, more preferably 10 ¹¹ Ωm or more and 10 ²⁵ Ωm or less, and further preferably 10 ¹⁴ Ωm or more and 10 ²⁵ Ωm or less. preferable. When the electrical resistivity is at least the above lower limit value, it is possible to suppress the deactivation of active species by trapping electrons on the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B. When the electrical resistivity is not more than the upper limit value, the material can be easily obtained. Further, when the electrical resistivity is 10 ¹⁴ Ωm or more, it is possible to further suppress the deactivation of active species due to the trapping of electrons on the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B.
The non-metal material is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include insulators such as resin and ceramics.
Examples of the resin include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), unilate, fluororesin and the like.
Examples of ceramics include alumina.
Further, as long as the above-mentioned electrical resistivity is achieved for the non-conductive portion as a whole, a plurality of non-metal materials may be used in combination.

As the material of the tubular dielectric 5, a dielectric material used in a known plasma device can be applied. Examples of the material of the tubular dielectric 5 include glass, ceramics, and synthetic resin. The higher the dielectric constant of the tubular dielectric 5, the more preferable.

The internal electrode 6 includes a shaft portion extending in the direction of the tube shaft O1 and a thread on the outer peripheral surface of the shaft portion. The shaft portion may be solid or hollow. Above all, the shaft portion is preferably solid. If the shaft is solid, it is easy to process and the mechanical durability can be improved. The thread of the internal electrode 6 is a spiral thread that orbits in the circumferential direction of the shaft portion. The form of the internal electrode 6 is similar to that of the male screw. The height of the thread of the internal electrode 6 can be appropriately determined in consideration of the outer diameter d1 of the internal electrode 6.
Since the internal electrode 6 has a thread on the outer peripheral surface, the electric field at the tip of the thread is locally strengthened, and the discharge start voltage is lowered. Therefore, plasma can be generated and maintained with low power consumption.
The internal electrode 6 does not have to have irregularities such as threads on the outer peripheral surface. That is, the internal electrode 6 may be a cylindrical member having no unevenness on the outer peripheral surface.

The material of the internal electrode 6 is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material, and a metal that can be used as an electrode of a known plasma device can be applied. Examples of the material of the internal electrode 6 include metals such as stainless steel, copper and tungsten, carbon and the like.

As the internal electrode 6, JIS B 0205: 2001 metric screw standard product (M2, M2.2, M2.5, M3, M3.5, etc.) and JIS B 2016: 1987 metric trapezoidal screw standard product (Tr8). × 1.5, Tr9 × 2, Tr9 × 1.5, etc.), JIS B 0206: 1973 unified coarse thread standard products (No. 1-64 UNC, No. 2-56 UNC, No. 3-48 UNC, etc.) The same specifications as the above are preferable. If the specifications are equivalent to those of these standard products, it is advantageous in terms of cost.

The material of the external electrode 7 is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material, and a metal used for an electrode of a known plasma device can be applied. Examples of the material of the external electrode 7 include metals such as stainless steel, copper and tungsten, carbon and the like.

The outer cylinder member 9 is preferably made of a metal material from the viewpoint of blocking electromagnetic waves generated from the plasma generating portion 2 and the electrical wiring (cable or the like). Examples of the metal material include stainless steel, aluminum, copper and the like.

According to the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment, since the introduction path 3 has a diameter-reduced portion 3B whose diameter is reduced (reduced) toward the lead-out direction, the active gas blown out from the irradiation port 1c By increasing the flow velocity and increasing the blowing speed of the active species, the amount of active species that reaches the target without being deactivated can be increased. Further, since the non-conductive portion made of a non-metal material is provided at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B, it is possible to suppress the deactivation of the active gas inside the introduction path 3. Further, since the non-conductive portion made of a non-metal material is provided at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B, deterioration of the active species in the introduction path 3 can be suppressed. As a result, the density of the active species contained in the active gas irradiated to the irradiation target can be increased. It should be noted that irradiating the active gas can be rephrased as spraying (transporting) the active gas toward the irradiation target.

According to the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment, at least the inner surface 3b of the reduced diameter portion 3B is made of a non-metal material, thereby improving the effect of suppressing the deactivation of the active gas inside the introduction path 3. Can be done.

According to the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment, the reduced diameter portion 3B has a tapered shape in which the diameter is reduced from the rear end toward the tip, and the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 and the tip side of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1. By having a second reduced diameter portion 3B2 having a constant diameter along the pipe axis O1 direction, turbulence or the like does not occur inside the introduction path 3, and the flow velocity of the active gas blown out from the irradiation port 1c is increased. Can be faster.

According to the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment, the plasma generating portion 2 is arranged in the tubular dielectric 5 and the tubular dielectric 5, and has an internal electrode 6 having a surface exposed to the plasma generating gas, and an internal electrode 6. The outer electrode 7 is arranged on the outer periphery of the inner electrode 6, and the outer diameter d1 of the inner electrode 6 is larger than the diameter d2 of the reduced diameter portion 3B, so that the active gas flows from the flow path 8 to the introduction path 3. It is possible to increase the flow velocity of the active gas blown out from the irradiation port 1c.

According to the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment, the tip 6a of the internal electrode 6 and the base end 1e of the reduced diameter portion 3B of the introduction path 3 are separated from each other in the lead-out direction.
When the head portion 1b is made of metal, if the tip 6a of the internal electrode 6 and the base end 1e of the reduced diameter portion 3B of the introduction path 3 are close to each other, dielectric breakdown occurs when a high voltage is applied to the internal electrode 6. May be generated and discharged between the head portion 1b and the internal electrode 6 so that the discharge does not occur at the intended location (discharge portion 2A). Therefore, by separating the tip 6a of the internal electrode 6 and the base end 1e of the reduced diameter portion 3B of the introduction path 3, dielectric breakdown is less likely to occur. Further, when the head portion 1b is made of a non-metal material and the outer cylinder member 9 is made of metal, an electric discharge may occur between the internal electrode 6 and the outer cylinder member 9 as described above. ..

According to the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment, since the diameter of the introduction path 3 is larger at the rear end than at the tip, the flow of the active gas inside the introduction path 3 is smoothed, and the active gas blown out from the irradiation port 1c. The flow velocity can be increased.

According to the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment, the diameter of the introduction path 3 is gradually reduced from the rear end to the tip, so that the flow of the active gas inside the introduction path 3 is smoothed and the irradiation port 1c is used. The flow velocity of the active gas to be blown out can be increased.

According to the irradiation device 10 of the present embodiment, the diameter of the introduction path 3 is reduced from the rear end to the tip, so that the active gas flows smoothly inside the introduction path 3 and is blown out from the irradiation port 1c. The flow velocity of the active gas can be increased.

<Other embodiments>
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment.

For example, the irradiation device 20 (20A to 20E) according to the modified example as shown in FIGS. 6 to 11 may be adopted. In the irradiation device 20 (20A to 20E) according to the modified example, the same parts as the components in the embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals, the description thereof will be omitted, and only the different points will be described.

The irradiation device 20 according to the modified example shown in FIGS. 6 to 11 is different from the above-mentioned irradiation device 10 shown in FIG. 1 in that it has an irradiation tube (nozzle) 21.
The irradiation device 20 has an outer cylinder member 9 that covers the plasma generating portion 2, and an irradiation tube 21 that protrudes from the outer cylinder member 9 and leads out the active gas to the irradiation target.
Further, the head portion 1b has a fitting hole (female screw) 1d at the tip thereof. The fitting hole 1d is a hole for receiving the irradiation tube 21. The irradiation tube 21 has a detachable mechanism that can be attached to and detached from the outer cylinder member 9. The attachment / detachment mechanism allows the irradiation tube 21 to be detachably and replaceably attached to the outer cylinder member 9. Specifically, as a attachment / detachment mechanism, the irradiation tube 21 has a fitting convex portion (male screw) 21a that fits into the fitting hole 1d provided at the tip of the head portion 1b, as shown in FIGS. 6 to 11. Have. Further, although not shown, the irradiation tube 21 may have a mechanism that can be attached / detached by fitting it into the tip of the outer cylinder member 9 (the side opposite to the portion to which the cable is connected). .. The diameter-reduced portion 3B of the introduction path 3 protrudes from the first diameter-reduced portion 3B1 provided inside the head portion 1b and the outer cylinder member 9, and is the second inside the irradiation tube 21 that leads the active gas to the irradiation target. It has a reduced diameter portion 3B2. That is, the reduced diameter portion 3B of the introduction path 3 is provided from the base end 1e on the flow path 8 side to the irradiation port 21b of the irradiation tube 21.

The irradiation tube 21 may be made of a metal such as stainless steel, or may be made of the above-mentioned non-metal material. The materials of the irradiation tube 21 and the head portion 1b may be the same or different.
That is, the irradiation tube 21 and the head portion 1b may be made of metal or may be made of the non-metal material.

When the irradiation tube 21 and the head portion 1b are made of metal, at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 and the inner surface 3c of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2 is made of the above non-metal material. That is, the irradiation device 20 has a layer (protective layer) made of a non-metal material on at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 and the inner surface 3c of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2.

According to the irradiation device 20 of this modification, the outer cylinder member 9 that covers the plasma generating portion 2 and the irradiation tube 21 that protrudes from the outer cylinder member 9 and leads the active gas to the irradiation target are provided, and the diameter-reduced portion 3B is provided. By having the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 provided inside the head portion 1b and the second reduced diameter portion 3B2 inside the irradiation tube, it becomes easy to perform the work of irradiating the irradiation target with the active gas. ..

According to the irradiation device 20 of this modification, the irradiation tube 21 has a detachable mechanism that can be attached to and detached from the outer cylinder member 9, so that the irradiation tube 21 eroded by plasma can be replaced with a new one. Moreover, the irradiation tube 21 can be made disposable. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of an infectious disease or the like via the irradiation tube 21.

The irradiation device 20 of this modification has a structure in which the introduction path 3 is as shown in FIGS. 7 to 11.
The irradiation device 20A (20) according to the modified example shown in FIG. 7 is different from the above-mentioned irradiation device 10 shown in FIG. 2 in that it has an irradiation tube 21.
The reduced diameter portion 3B is a first reduced diameter portion 3B1 provided inside the head portion 1b, and a second reduced diameter portion 3B2 inside the irradiation tube 21 that protrudes from the outer cylinder member 9 and leads the active gas to the irradiation target. And have.
As shown in FIG. 7, the diameter of the reduced diameter portion 3B is larger at the rear end than at the tip. In this modification, the diameter d8 at the rear end of the reduced diameter portion 3B is larger than the diameter d9 at the tip (irradiation port 21b) of the reduced diameter portion 3B.
Also in this modification, the non-conductive portion made of the non-metal material is provided on at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 in the head portion 1b and the inner surface 3c of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2 in the irradiation tube 21. Have.

The irradiation device 20B (20) according to the modified example shown in FIG. 8 is different from the above-mentioned irradiation device 10 shown in FIG. 3 in that it has an irradiation tube 21.
The reduced diameter portion 3B is a first reduced diameter portion 3B1 provided inside the head portion 1b, and a second reduced diameter portion 3B2 inside an irradiation tube 21 that protrudes from the outer cylinder member 9 and leads the active gas to the irradiation target. And a third reduced diameter portion 3B3.
As shown in FIG. 8, the diameter of the reduced diameter portion 3B is gradually reduced from the rear end to the tip. In this modification, the reduced diameter portion 3B has a first reduced diameter portion 3B1, a second reduced diameter portion 3B2, and a third reduced diameter portion 3B3 in order from the rear end to the tip end. That is, the diameter of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 is larger than the diameter of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2, and the diameter of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2 is larger than the diameter of the third reduced diameter portion 3B3. In the modification shown in FIG. 8, the case where the reduced diameter portion 3B is composed of three portions gradually decreasing from the rear end to the tip is illustrated, but this modification is not limited to this. In this modification, the reduced diameter portion 3B may be composed of two or four or more portions that gradually decrease from the rear end to the front end.
Also in this modification, at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 in the head portion 1b, the inner surface 3c of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2 in the irradiation tube 21, and the inner surface 3d of the third reduced diameter portion 3B3 is not covered. It has a non-conductive part made of a metal material.

The irradiation device 20C (20) according to the modified example shown in FIG. 9 is different from the above-mentioned irradiation device 10 shown in FIG. 4 in that it has an irradiation tube 21.
The reduced diameter portion 3B is a first reduced diameter portion 3B1 provided inside the head portion 1b, and a second reduced diameter portion 3B2 inside an irradiation tube 21 that protrudes from the outer cylinder member 9 and leads the active gas to the irradiation target. And have.
As shown in FIG. 9, the inner diameter of the reduced diameter portion 3B is reduced from the rear end toward the tip. That is, the reduced diameter portion 3B has a tapered shape. In the reduced diameter portion 3B, the diameter d10 of the rear end of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 is larger than the diameter d11 of the tip end (irradiation port 21b) of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2.
Also in this modification, the non-conductive portion made of the non-metal material is provided on at least a part of the inner surface 3b of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 in the head portion 1b and the inner surface 3c of the second reduced diameter portion 3B2 in the irradiation tube 21. Have.

The irradiation device 20D (20) according to the modified example shown in FIG. 10 is different from the above-mentioned irradiation device 10 shown in FIG. 5 in that it has an irradiation tube 21.
The reduced diameter portion 3B is a first reduced diameter portion 3B1 provided inside the head portion 1b, and a second reduced diameter portion 3B2 inside an irradiation tube 21 that protrudes from the outer cylinder member 9 and leads the active gas to the irradiation target. And have.
As shown in FIG. 10, the reduced diameter portion 3B is provided on the first reduced diameter portion 3B1 having a tapered shape that reduces the diameter from the rear end toward the tip, and on the tip side of the first reduced diameter portion 3B1. It has a second diameter-reduced portion 3B2 having a constant diameter along the pipe axis O1 direction.

In the irradiation device 20E (20) according to the modified example shown in FIG. 11, the irradiation tube 21 is bent. The bending of the irradiation tube 21 means that the irradiation port 21b separates from the tube axis O1 toward the tip of the irradiation tube 21.
The inner diameter of the irradiation tube 21 may be larger at the rear end than at the tip. Further, the inner diameter of the irradiation tube 21 may be gradually reduced from the rear end to the front end. Further, the inner diameter of the irradiation tube 21 may be reduced from the rear end to the tip. That is, the irradiation tube 21 may have a tapered shape. As described above, when the inner diameter of the irradiation tube 21 is reduced from the rear end to the tip, the inner diameter d12 of the irradiation port 21b is preferably 0.5 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less.

According to the irradiation device 20E (20) of the present modification, the same effect as that of the irradiation device 20 of the first modification described above can be obtained. Further, according to the irradiation device 20E (20) of the present modification, the bending of the irradiation tube 21 facilitates the work of irradiating the irradiation target with the active gas.

[Plasma irradiation device]
The plasma irradiation device according to the embodiment of the present invention is a plasma jet irradiation device or an active gas irradiation device.
The plasma jet irradiator generates plasma. The plasma jet irradiation device directly irradiates the irradiated target with the generated plasma and the active species. The active species is produced by reacting a gas in the plasma or a gas around the plasma with the plasma. Examples of the active species include active oxygen species and active nitrogen species. Examples of the active oxygen species include hydroxyl radical, singlet oxygen, ozone, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion radical and the like. Examples of the active nitrogen species include nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, peroxynitrite, nitrite peroxide, and dinitrogen trioxide.

The active gas irradiation device generates plasma. The active gas irradiation device irradiates the irradiation target with an active gas containing an active species. The active species is produced by reacting a gas in the plasma or a gas around the plasma with the plasma.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the plasma irradiation device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The plasma irradiation device of this embodiment is an active gas irradiation device.
FIG. 12 is a schematic view showing the plasma irradiation device of this embodiment. FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the plasma irradiation device of the present embodiment.
As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the plasma irradiation device 100 of the present embodiment includes an irradiation device 10, a supply unit 110, a gas pipeline 120, an electrical wiring 130, a supply source 140, and a notification unit 150. , A control unit 160 (calculation unit).

The supply unit 110 supplies electric power and plasma generating gas to the irradiation device 10. The supply unit 110 houses the supply source 140. The supply source 140 contains a gas for generating plasma. The supply unit 110 is connected to, for example, a power source (not shown) such as a 100 V household power source. The gas pipeline 120 connects the irradiation device 10 and the supply unit 110. The electrical wiring 130 connects the irradiation device 10 and the supply unit 110.
In the present embodiment, the gas pipeline 120 and the electrical wiring 130 are independent of each other, but the gas pipeline 120 and the electrical wiring 130 may be integrated.

The supply unit 110 as shown in FIG. 12 supplies electricity and plasma generating gas to the irradiation device 10. The supply unit 110 can adjust the voltage and frequency applied between the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7. The supply unit 110 includes a housing 111 that houses the supply source 140.
The housing 111 accommodates the supply source 140 in a detachable manner. As a result, the supply source 140 can be replaced when the plasma generating gas in the supply source 140 housed in the housing 111 runs out.

The supply source 140 supplies the plasma generation gas to the plasma generation unit 2. The supply source 140 is a pressure-resistant container in which a gas for plasma generation is housed. As shown in FIG. 13, the supply source 140 is detachably attached to the pipe 145 arranged in the housing 111. The pipe 145 connects the supply source 140 and the gas pipe line 120.
A solenoid valve 141, a pressure regulator 143, a flow controller 144, and a pressure sensor 142 (remaining amount sensor) are attached to the pipe 145.

When the solenoid valve 141 is opened, plasma generation gas is supplied from the supply source 140 to the irradiation device 10 via the pipe 145 and the gas pipeline 120. In the illustrated example, the solenoid valve 141 does not have a configuration in which the valve opening degree can be adjusted, but has a configuration in which only opening and closing can be switched. The solenoid valve 141 may have a configuration in which the valve opening degree can be adjusted.
The pressure regulator 143 is arranged between the solenoid valve 141 and the supply source 140. The pressure regulator 143 reduces the pressure of the plasma generating gas (reducing the plasma generating gas) from the supply source 140 toward the solenoid valve 141.

The flow rate controller 144 is arranged between the solenoid valve 141 and the gas pipeline 120.
The flow rate controller 144 adjusts the flow rate (supply amount per unit time) of the plasma generating gas that has passed through the solenoid valve 141. The flow rate controller 144 adjusts the flow rate of the plasma generating gas to, for example, 3 L / min.
The pressure sensor 142 detects the remaining amount V1 of the plasma generating gas at the supply source 140. The pressure sensor 142 measures the pressure (residual pressure) in the supply source 140 as the remaining amount V1. The pressure sensor 142 measures the pressure of the plasma generating gas passing between the pressure regulator 143 and the supply source 140 (primary side of the pressure regulator 143) as the pressure of the supply source 140. As the pressure sensor 142, for example, Keyence's AP-V80 series (specifically, for example, AP-15S) or the like can be adopted.

A joint 146 is provided at the end of the pipe 145 on the supply source 140 side. A supply source 140 is detachably attached to the joint 146. By attaching and detaching the supply source 140 to the joint 146, the solenoid valve 141, the pressure regulator 143, the flow controller 144, and the pressure sensor 142 (hereinafter referred to as "solenoid valve 141, etc.") are fixed to the housing 111 and the supply source is fixed. The 140 can be replaced.
In this case, a common solenoid valve 141 or the like can be used for both the supply source 140 before replacement and the supply source 140 after replacement.

As shown in FIG. 12, the gas pipeline 120 is a path for supplying plasma generation gas from the supply unit 110 to the irradiation device 10. The gas pipeline 120 is connected to the rear end of the tubular dielectric 5 of the irradiation device 10. The material of the gas pipe line 120 is not particularly limited, and a known material used for the gas pipe can be applied. As the material of the gas pipeline 120, for example, a resin pipe, a rubber tube, or the like can be exemplified, and a flexible material is preferable.

The electric wiring 130 is a wiring for supplying electricity from the supply unit 110 to the irradiation device 10. The electrical wiring 130 is connected to the internal electrode 6, the external electrode 7, and the operation switch 4 of the irradiation device 10. The material of the electric wiring 130 is not particularly limited, and a known material used for the electric wiring can be applied.
As the material of the electric wiring 130, a metal conductor or the like coated with an insulating material can be exemplified.

The control unit 160 as shown in FIG. 13 is configured by using an information processing device. That is, the control unit 160 includes a CPU (Central Processor Unit) connected by a bus, a memory, and an auxiliary storage device. The control unit 160 operates by executing a program. The control unit 160 may be built in, for example, the supply unit 110. The control unit 160 controls the irradiation device 10, the supply unit 110, and the notification unit 150.

The operation switch 4 of the irradiation device 10 is electrically connected to the control unit 160. When the operation switch 4 is operated, an electric signal is sent from the operation switch 4 to the control unit 160. When the control unit 160 receives the electric signal, the control unit 160 operates the solenoid valve 141 and the flow rate controller 144, and applies a voltage between the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7.

In the present embodiment, the operation switch 4 is a push button, and when the user presses the operation switch 4 once (the user operates the operation switch 4), the control unit 160 receives the electric signal. Then, the control unit 160 opens the solenoid valve 141 for a predetermined time to cause the flow controller 144 to adjust the flow rate of the plasma generating gas that has passed through the solenoid valve 141, and between the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7. The voltage is applied for a predetermined time. As a result, a certain amount of plasma generation gas is supplied from the supply source 140 to the plasma generation unit 2, and the active gas is discharged from the irradiation port of the irradiation device 10 for a certain period of time (for example, about several seconds to several tens of seconds, 30 in this embodiment). Seconds), continuously ejected. The operation switch 4 is not limited to the form provided on the outer cylinder member 9, and may be in the form of a foot switch independent of the irradiation device 10 and connected to the control unit 160.

The control unit 160 calculates the remaining number N of the plasma generating gas. The remaining number N is the remaining number of times that the plasma generation gas can be supplied from the supply source 140 to the plasma generation unit 2 by the plasma generation gas remaining in the supply source 140. The remaining number N can be calculated from the remaining amount V1 of the plasma generating gas in the supply source 140. The remaining number of times N can be calculated (N = V1 / V2) based on the remaining amount V1 and the supply amount V2 of the plasma generating gas per operation of the operation switch 4.

The notification unit 150 notifies the remaining number of times N. The notification unit 150 displays the remaining number of times N calculated by the control unit 160 as a number. As the notification unit 150, for example, a display device capable of displaying an arbitrary number may be adopted, or a mechanical counter may be adopted. The notification unit 150 may notify the remaining number of times N by voice. In this case, for example, a speaker or the like can be adopted as the notification unit 150.

Next, a method of using the plasma irradiation device 100 will be described.
For example, a user such as a doctor holds and moves the irradiation device 10 and directs the tip of the irradiation device 10 toward the irradiation target. At this time, the user grips the irradiation device 10 with his / her own hand (the hand that operates the irradiation device 10). In this state, the operation switch 4 is pressed to supply electricity and plasma generating gas from the supply source 140 to the irradiation device 10.
The plasma generating gas supplied to the irradiation device 10 flows into the inner space of the tubular dielectric 5 from the rear end of the tubular dielectric 5. The plasma generating gas is ionized at a position where the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7 face each other to become plasma.

In the present embodiment, the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7 face each other in a direction orthogonal to the flow direction of the plasma generating gas. The plasma generated at the position where the outer peripheral surface of the internal electrode 6 and the inner peripheral surface of the external electrode 7 face each other passes through the flow path 8 and the introduction path 3 in this order. During this period, the plasma flows while changing the gas composition, and becomes an active gas containing active species such as radicals.

The generated active gas is discharged from the irradiation port 1c. The discharged active gas further activates a part of the gas in the vicinity of the irradiation port 1c to generate an active species. The irradiation target is irradiated with an active gas containing these active species.

Examples of the irradiation target include cells, biological tissues, individual organisms, organic materials (for example, resins, etc.), inorganic materials (for example, ceramics, metals, etc.) and the like.
Examples of the biological tissue include organs of internal organs, epithelial tissue covering the inner surface of the body surface and the body cavity, periodontal tissue such as gingiva, alveolar bone, periodontal ligament and cementum, teeth, bone and the like.
The individual organism may be any of mammals such as humans, dogs, cats and pigs; birds; fish and the like.

Examples of the plasma generating gas include rare gases such as helium, neon, argon and krypton, nitrogen, oxygen, air and the like. These gases may be used alone or in combination of two or more.
The plasma generating gas preferably contains nitrogen as a main component. Here, the term "nitrogen as a main component" means that the content of nitrogen in the plasma generating gas is more than 50% by volume.
That is, the nitrogen content in the plasma generating gas is preferably more than 50% by volume, more preferably 70% by volume or more, further preferably 80% by mass to 100% by mass, and particularly preferably 90% by mass to 100% by mass. The gas components other than nitrogen in the plasma generating gas are not particularly limited, and examples thereof include oxygen and rare gases.

When the plasma irradiation device 100 is an oral treatment instrument, the oxygen concentration of the plasma generating gas introduced into the tubular dielectric 5 is preferably 1% by volume or less. If the oxygen concentration is not more than the upper limit, the generation of ozone can be reduced.

The flow rate of the plasma generating gas introduced into the tubular dielectric 5 is preferably 1 L / min to 10 L / min.
When the flow rate of the plasma generating gas introduced into the tubular dielectric 5 is at least the above lower limit value, it is easy to suppress an increase in the temperature of the irradiated surface (the surface irradiated with the active gas in the irradiation target) in the irradiation target. When the flow rate of the plasma generating gas is not more than the upper limit value, the cleaning, activation or healing of the irradiation target can be further promoted.

The AC voltage applied between the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7 is preferably 3 kVpp or more and 20 kVpp or less. Here, the unit "Vpp (Volt peak to peak)" representing the AC voltage is the potential difference between the maximum value and the minimum value of the AC voltage waveform.
When the internal electrode 6 is a cylindrical member having no unevenness on the outer peripheral surface, the AC voltage applied between the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7 is preferably 6 kVpp or more. When the internal electrode 6 having no unevenness on the outer peripheral surface is used, it is necessary to increase the AC voltage applied between the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7 as compared with the case where the internal electrode 6 having unevenness on the outer peripheral surface is used. be.
When the applied AC voltage is not more than the upper limit value, the temperature of the generated plasma can be suppressed low. If the applied AC voltage is equal to or higher than the lower limit, plasma can be generated more efficiently.

The frequency of the alternating current applied between the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7 is preferably 0.5 kHz or more and less than 40 kHz, more preferably 10 kHz or more and less than 30 kHz, further preferably 15 kHz or more and less than 25 kHz, and particularly preferably 18 kHz or more and less than 22 kHz. ..
If the AC frequency is less than the upper limit, the temperature of the generated plasma can be kept low.
If the AC frequency is equal to or higher than the lower limit, plasma can be generated more efficiently.

The temperature of the active gas irradiated from the irradiation port 1c of the irradiation device 10 is preferably 50 ° C. or lower, more preferably 45 ° C. or lower, still more preferably 40 ° C. or lower.
When the temperature of the active gas irradiated from the irradiation port 1c is not more than the upper limit value, the temperature of the irradiated surface is likely to be 40 ° C. or less. By setting the temperature of the irradiated surface to 40 ° C. or lower, irritation to the affected area can be reduced even when the irradiated area is the affected area.
The lower limit of the temperature of the active gas irradiated from the irradiation port 1c is not particularly limited, and is, for example, 10 ° C. or higher.
The temperature of the active gas is a value obtained by measuring the temperature of the active gas at the irradiation port 1c with a thermocouple.

The distance (irradiation distance) from the irradiation port 1c to the irradiated surface is preferably, for example, 0.01 mm to 10 mm. When the irradiation distance is equal to or more than the above lower limit value, the temperature of the irradiated surface can be lowered and the irritation to the irradiated surface can be further alleviated. When the irradiation distance is not more than the above upper limit value, the effect of healing and the like can be further enhanced.

The temperature of the irradiated surface at a position separated from the irradiation port 1c at a distance of 1 mm or more and 10 mm or less is preferably 40 ° C. or less. When the temperature of the irradiated surface is 40 ° C. or lower, the irritation to the irradiated surface can be reduced. The lower limit of the temperature of the irradiated surface is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 10 ° C. or higher.
The temperature of the irradiated surface can be adjusted by a combination of the AC voltage applied between the internal electrode 6 and the external electrode 7, the discharge amount of the activated gas to be irradiated, the length from the tip of the internal electrode 6 to the irradiation port 1c, and the like. ..
The temperature of the irradiated surface can be measured using a thermocouple.

Active species (radicals, etc.) contained in the active gas include hydroxyl radical, singlet oxygen, ozone, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion radical, nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, peroxynitrite, nitrite peroxide, and trioxide. (2) Nitric oxide and the like can be exemplified. The type of active species contained in the active gas can be further adjusted to, for example, the type of plasma generating gas.

The density of hydroxyl radicals (radical density) in the active gas is preferably 0.1 μmol / L to 300 μmol / L, more preferably 0.1 μmol / L to 100 μmol / L, and further preferably 0.1 μmol / L to 50 μmol / L. preferable. When the radical density is at least the above lower limit value, it is easy to promote the cleansing, activation or healing of abnormalities of the irradiation target selected from cells, biological tissues and individual organisms. When the radical density is not more than the upper limit value, the irritation to the irradiated surface can be reduced.

The radical density can be measured, for example, by the following method.
Irradiate 0.2 mL of DMPO (5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrrroline-N-oxide) 0.2 mol / L solution with an active gas for 30 seconds. At this time, the distance from the irradiation port 1c to the liquid surface is 5.0 mm. The hydroxyl radical concentration of the solution irradiated with the active gas is measured by using an electron spin resonance (ESR) method, and this is used as the radical density.

The density of singlet oxygen (singlet oxygen density) in the active gas is preferably 0.1 μmol / L to 300 μmol / L, more preferably 0.1 μmol / L to 100 μmol / L, and 0.1 μmol / L to 50 μmol / L. L is more preferred. When the singlet oxygen density is at least the above lower limit value, it is easy to promote the cleansing, activation or healing of abnormalities of irradiated objects such as cells, biological tissues and individual organisms. When it is not more than the upper limit value, the irritation to the irradiated surface can be reduced.

The singlet oxygen density can be measured by, for example, the following method.
Irradiate 0.4 mL of TPC (2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-3-pyrrroline-3-carboxamide) 0.1 mol / L solution with an active gas for 30 seconds. At this time, the distance from the irradiation port 1c to the liquid surface is 5.0 mm. The singlet oxygen concentration of the solution irradiated with the active gas is measured by using an electron spin resonance (ESR) method, and this is defined as the singlet oxygen density.

The flow rate of the active gas irradiated from the irradiation port 1c is preferably 1 L / min to 10 L / min.
When the flow rate of the active gas irradiated from the irradiation port 1c is at least the above lower limit value, the effect of the active gas acting on the irradiated surface can be sufficiently enhanced. When the flow rate of the active gas irradiated from the irradiation port 1c is less than the upper limit value, it is possible to prevent the temperature of the surface to be irradiated with the active gas from rising excessively. In addition, when the irradiated surface is wet, rapid drying of the irradiated surface can be prevented. Furthermore, when the irradiated surface is the affected area, irritation to the patient can be suppressed.
In the plasma irradiation device 100, the flow rate of the active gas irradiated from the irradiation port 1c can be adjusted by the amount of the plasma generating gas supplied to the tubular dielectric 5.

The active gas generated by the plasma irradiation device 100 has the effect of promoting healing of trauma and abnormalities. By irradiating a cell, a living tissue or an individual organism with an active gas, the cleansing, activation, or healing of the irradiated portion can be promoted.

When irradiating an active gas for the purpose of promoting healing of trauma or abnormality, there are no particular restrictions on the irradiation frequency, the number of irradiations, and the irradiation period. For example, when irradiating the affected area with an active gas at an irradiation amount of 1 L / min to 5.0 L / min, the irradiation conditions such as once to 5 times a day, 10 seconds to 10 minutes each time, 1 day to 30 days, etc. , Preferred from the viewpoint of promoting healing.

The plasma irradiation device 100 of the present embodiment is particularly useful as an oral treatment instrument and a dental treatment instrument. Further, the plasma irradiation device 100 of the present embodiment is also suitable as an animal treatment device (for example, a treatment device for treating the oral cavity of animals other than humans).

According to the plasma irradiation device 100 of the present embodiment, since the irradiation device 10 is provided, it is possible to irradiate the irradiation target with an active gas having a high density of active species.

[Example 1]
Using an irradiation device provided with an irradiation tube at the tip as shown in FIG. 7, the active gas was blown out from the irradiation port of the irradiation device.
As the irradiation tube, a tube having an inner diameter of 1 mm in the introduction path, an inner diameter of 0.8 mm in the irradiation port, and a whole made of polypropylene was used. The irradiation tube has a reduced diameter portion, and the entire reduced diameter portion is a non-conductive portion made of polypropylene.
The density of hydroxyl radical (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port was measured by the above method. The results are shown in FIG.
The density of singlet oxygen (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port was measured by the above method. The results are shown in FIG.

[Comparative Example 1]
Using an irradiation device provided with an irradiation tube at the tip as shown in FIG. 6, the active gas was blown out from the irradiation port of the irradiation device.
As the irradiation tube, a tube having an inner diameter of the introduction path and an inner diameter of the irradiation port of 1 mm and made entirely of polypropylene was used. The irradiation tube does not have a reduced diameter portion.
In the same manner as in Example 1, the density of hydroxyl radical (active species) and the density of singlet oxygen (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port were measured. The results are shown in FIGS. 14 and 15.

[Comparative Example 2]
As the irradiation tube, the active gas was blown out from the irradiation port of the irradiation device in the same manner as in Comparative Example 1 except that the irradiation port had an inner diameter of 1 mm and was entirely made of stainless steel. The irradiation tube has no non-conductive portion.
In the same manner as in Example 1, the density of hydroxyl radical (active species) and the density of singlet oxygen (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port were measured. The results are shown in FIGS. 14 and 15.

[Comparative Example 3]
As the irradiation tube, the active gas was blown out from the irradiation port of the irradiation device in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the irradiation port had an inner diameter of 0.8 mm and was entirely made of stainless steel. The irradiation tube has no non-conductive portion.
In the same manner as in Example 1, the density of hydroxyl radical (active species) and the density of singlet oxygen (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port were measured. The results are shown in FIGS. 14 and 15.

From the results of FIGS. 14 and 15, in Example 1 in which the irradiation tube having an inner diameter of 1 mm in the introduction path, an inner diameter of 0.8 mm in the irradiation port, and the whole being made of polypropylene was used, the whole as the irradiation tube was used. It was confirmed that the density of hydroxyl radicals and the density of singlet oxygen contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port were higher than those of Comparative Example 2 and Comparative Example 3 using stainless steel.
Further, comparing Example 1 and Comparative Example 1, Example 1 having a smaller inner diameter of the irradiation port has a density of hydroxyl radicals and singlet oxygen contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port as compared with Comparative Example 1. It was confirmed that the density was high.

[Example 2]
Using an irradiation device provided with an irradiation tube at the tip as shown in FIG. 6, the active gas was blown out from the irradiation port of the irradiation device.
As the irradiation tube, a straight tube having a length of the introduction path of 51 mm, an inner diameter of the rear end side of the introduction path of 2.0 mm, an inner diameter of the irradiation port of 0.8 mm, and the entire composition of polypropylene was used. The irradiation tube has a reduced diameter portion, and the entire reduced diameter portion is a non-conductive portion made of polypropylene.
The density of singlet oxygen (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port was measured by the above method. The results are shown in FIG.

[Example 3]
Using an irradiation device provided with an irradiation tube at the tip as shown in FIG. 11, the active gas was blown out from the irradiation port of the irradiation device.
As the irradiation tube, a bent tube having a length of the introduction path of 51 mm, an inner diameter of the rear end side of the introduction path of 2.0 mm, an inner diameter of the irradiation port of 0.8 mm, and the entire composition of polypropylene was used. .. The irradiation tube has a reduced diameter portion, and the entire reduced diameter portion is a non-conductive portion made of polypropylene.
The density of singlet oxygen (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port was measured by the above method. The results are shown in FIG.

[Comparative Example 4]
Using an irradiation device provided with an irradiation tube at the tip as shown in FIG. 6, the active gas was blown out from the irradiation port of the irradiation device.
The irradiation tube has a length of 28.4 mm in the introduction path, an inner diameter of 1.0 mm on the rear end side of the introduction path, an inner diameter of 1.0 mm in the irradiation port, and a straight tube made entirely of stainless steel. Using. The irradiation tube has no non-conductive portion.
The density of singlet oxygen (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port was measured by the above method. The results are shown in FIG.

[Comparative Example 5]
Using an irradiation device provided with an irradiation tube at the tip as shown in FIG. 11, the active gas was blown out from the irradiation port of the irradiation device.
The irradiation tube has a length of 28.4 mm in the introduction path, an inner diameter of 1.0 mm on the rear end side of the introduction path, an inner diameter of 1.0 mm in the irradiation port, and is bent as a whole made of stainless steel. Was used. The irradiation tube has no non-conductive portion.
The density of singlet oxygen (active species) contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port was measured by the above method. The results are shown in FIG.

From the results of FIG. 16, as an irradiation tube, the length of the introduction path is 51 mm, the inner diameter of the rear end side of the introduction path is 2.0 mm, the inner diameter of the irradiation port is 0.8 mm, and the whole is made of polypropylene. In Example 2, the length of the introduction path is 28.4 mm, the inner diameter of the rear end side of the introduction path is 1.0 mm, the inner diameter of the irradiation port is 1.0 mm, and the whole is stainless steel. It was confirmed that the density of hydroxyl radicals and the density of singlet oxygen contained in the active gas blown out from the irradiation port were higher than those of Comparative Example 4 using the straight tubular one composed of.

The irradiation device of the present invention and the plasma irradiation device provided with the irradiation device are useful for oral treatment, dental treatment, animal treatment and the like. Examples of diseases and symptoms that can be treated by irradiation with active gas include oral diseases such as gingival inflammation and periodontal disease, and skin wounds.

1 Cowling 1a Body 1b Head 1c Irradiation port 2 Plasma generator 3 Introductory path 4 Operation switch 5 Tubular dielectric 6 Internal electrode 7 External electrode 8 Flow path 9 Outer cylinder member 10, 20 Irradiation instrument 21 Irradiation tube 100 Plasma irradiation device 110 Supply unit 120 Gas pipeline 130 Electrical wiring 140 Supply source 150 Notification unit 160 Control unit

Claims (13)

1. Electrodes that generate plasma when voltage is applied,
   It is provided with an introduction path that communicates with the irradiation port that irradiates the irradiation target with the active gas and extends from the tip of the electrode on the irradiation port side to the irradiation port.
   The introduction path has a diameter-reduced portion whose diameter becomes smaller in the lead-out direction in which the active gas is led out to the irradiation target.
   An irradiation instrument having a non-conductive portion made of a non-metallic material on at least a part of the inner surface of the reduced diameter portion.
2. Further, an irradiation tube having the irradiation port is provided.
   The irradiation tube has a detachable attachment / detachment mechanism.
   The irradiation device according to claim 1, wherein the reduced diameter portion is formed in a flow path inside the irradiation tube.
3. The irradiation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the resistivity of the non-metal material is ¹⁰⁶ Ωm or more and 10 ²⁵ Ωm or less.
4. The irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least the inner surface of the reduced diameter portion is made of a non-metal material.
5. It has an outer cylinder member that covers the plasma generating portion including the electrode, and an irradiation tube that protrudes from the outer cylinder member and leads out the active gas to the irradiation target.
   The irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the introduction path includes a flow path inside the irradiation tube.
6. The irradiation device according to claim 5, wherein the irradiation tube is bent.
7. The irradiation device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the irradiation tube has a detachable attachment / detachment mechanism, and the attachment / detachment mechanism is a mechanism that is detachable from the outer cylinder member.
8. The plasma generating portion has a tubular dielectric, an internal electrode arranged in the tubular dielectric and having a surface exposed to a plasma generating gas, and an external electrode arranged on the outer periphery of the internal electrode.
   The irradiation device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the outer diameter of the internal electrode is larger than the inner diameter of the reduced diameter portion.
9. The irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the inner diameter of the introduction path is larger at the rear end than at the tip.
10. The irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the inner diameter of the introduction path gradually decreases from the rear end to the tip.
11. The irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the inner diameter of the introduction path is reduced from the rear end to the tip.
12. A plasma irradiation device provided with the irradiation device according to any one of claims 1 to 11.
13. Electrodes that generate plasma when voltage is applied,
    It is provided with an introduction path that communicates with the irradiation port that irradiates the irradiation target with the active gas and extends from the tip of the electrode on the irradiation port side to the irradiation port.
    The introduction path has a diameter-reduced portion whose diameter becomes smaller in the lead-out direction in which the active gas is led out to the irradiation target.
    An irradiation tube used for an irradiation instrument, which has a non-conductive portion made of a non-metal material on at least a part of the inner surface of the reduced diameter portion.

Images