Using Clostridium sporogenes cultures, inhibitory effects of its gaseous metabolic end products on the activity of palladium Deoxo catalyst and on surface growth of some clinically significant anaerobes were demonstrated. A new product “Anotox” was shown to adsorb these metabolites, which enabled uninhibited growth of anaerobes, and prolonged the life of the catalyst.
The surface growth of anaerobes requires the provision of an oxygen-free atmosphere, usually in a jar or cabinet, and for this purpose Deoxo palladinised alumina (Engelhard) is commonly used to remove oxygen by catalysis with hydrogen. Catalyst activity in the anaerobic jar may be monitored manometrically; thus failure to achieve a secondary vacuum after evacuation/replacement occurs if the catalyst is inactivated by products of bacterial metabolism, notably hydrogen sulphide.
During periodic removal of the front panel of an anaerobic cabinet for servicing, it was noted that the cabinet atmosphere was becoming more and more malodorous and toxic, causing irritation to the eyes and respiratory mucus membranes. It seemed likely that this atmospheric toxicity, doubtless attributable to the steady accumulation of volatile fatty acids, alcohols and hydrogen sulphide, might not only cause premature loss of catalyst activity, but also have an adverse effect on the surface growth of anaerobic organisms.
The aim of the present study was to investigate these aspects of cabinet atmospheric pollution. As part of the work evaluations were made of a new product-“Anotox”-a substance which is designed to absorb volatile fatty acids and hydrogen sulphide.
Talk to us about your research requirements, and we’ll discuss customization options to ensure your Coy chamber meets your specifications.
