Samsung had introduced a novel technology for eliminating the bacteria. No matter how much care is taken the most relied appliances are often breeding grounds for bacteria and odours. The research and development team at Samsung discovered that the introduction of silver ions in the home appliances enables them to remain odour and bacteria free. Thus the inner surfaces of Samsung’s home appliances have a silver nano coating that provides an overall anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effect. With the circulation of air the surfaces that are coated with silver nano suppress the respiration of bacteria, adversely affecting its cellular metabolism in turn inhibiting the cell growth; thus providing an anti-bacterial and anti fungal effect.
Why Nano-Silver?
Since ancient times, silver has been known for its medicinal and anti-bacterial values. It has also been used in treatment of many diseases. One nano metre is equal to one billionth of a metre. Nano-Silver is in fact pure deionised water with Ag (silver) particles suspended. The nano-silver particles measure approximately 25nm in size. Owing to their large surface area, their chances of coming in contact with the fungi and bacteria is relatively higher. As soon as the nano-silver particle comes in contact with the bacteria and fungus, it works towards adversely affecting its cellular metabolism and thus curbing the growth of cells. As the cell multiplication and growth of bacteria and fungus is suppressed, the appliances are relatively infection and odour free. Nano Silver has been chosen because it is highly effective, non poisonous, non allergic, non stimulating, tolerance-free, hydrophilic and it acts really fast. Also silver nano technology is believed to be able to sterilise about 650 types of bacteria and other micro-organisms.
Silver Nano Technology in Washing Machines
Based on these properties of the Silver Nano technology, Samsung has incorporated the system in most of its home appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, vacuum cleaners, air conditioners, air purifiers, etc. In case of washing machines, they have introduced the Silver Wash System. This is an advanced washing technology that comes with excellent bacteria killing capabilities. A perfect and excellent cleaning solution is prepared by dissolving about 400 billion silver ions in water. This solution works on the clothes by reaching up to the molecular level. It has a sterilising power of up to 99.99% that provides you with pure and hygienic clothes. Almost 99.99% pure silver is used in the Silver wash technology. Silver Wash System utilises nano technology to electrolyse silver during the washing and rinsing cycles.
How it Works in Washing Machines
The entire working principle is based on a five stage process. In the first stage, electricity is passed through the electrodes to generate Ag+ ions. Next water is then allowed to pass through these Ag+ ions, hence filling the tub with Ag+ particles. In the wash cycle these Ag+ ions sterilise the clothes. Fourth stage occurs during the last rinse cycle wherein again the Ag+ ions are released in the tub. Finally, these ions prevent any kind of bacteria or microbes from attaching itself on the clothes. It also prevents them from clinging onto the machine’s tub. Hence, silver nano particles disinfects not just the clothes but also the washing drum and its internal parts. By providing a silver nano coating on the fabric, it makes the clothes anti-bacterial for about 30 days.
Environmental Implications of Silver-Nano Technology
With the advent of nanotechnology, there is a huge concern about the environmental effects caused by the nano technological materials. They can float in air and enter the plant and animal cells to cause unknown side effects. Also considerable amount of silver can enter sewage plants, causing serious issues to the biological water purification process. The co-author of Korea Times had once stated that firms such as Samsung and LG are designing products that make use of the silver nano technology owing to its bacteria killing ability. But scientists are still not sure about what effects it can cause to mankind. In order to determine the exact health hazard stimulated by these nano particles, their entire life cycle needs to be accessed. This includes conducting an extensive research on the manufacturing, storage, distribution, application and disposal of the nano corpuscles. Their impact, good or bad may depend and vary on each and every stage of the life cycle. Research in this sector is a great challenge.
