Molds produce harmful substances called mycotoxins that damage food and buildings. Scientists developed a mathematical formula to predict how cold plasma can kill mold colonies. This model works faster than actual experiments and could help control mold in food storage and building materials without using toxic chemicals.
This research develops a mathematical model to predict how cold atmospheric plasma kills mold, which is important because molds produce toxins that harm human and animal health and damage food and buildings. The model uses equations to describe mold growth and plasma effects, allowing researchers to predict outcomes in minutes rather than waiting weeks for lab experiments. The study found that plasma is most effective when its killing power matches the mold’s natural growth rate, causing complete extinction.
This research develops a mathematical model to predict how cold atmospheric plasma kills mold colonies on surfaces. Using experiments with Aspergillus brasiliensis, scientists found that when plasma treatment strength matches the mold’s natural growth rate, the mold stops growing and eventually dies. The model can provide predictions in minutes that would normally take weeks of laboratory testing, making it useful for food industry and building material applications.