Abstract
The transformation of our linear “take-make-waste” system to a cyclic flow of materials and energy is a priority task for society, but the circular use of waste streams from one industry/sector as a material input for another must be completely safe. The need for new advanced technologies and methods ensuring both microbiological safety and the removal of potential chemical residues in used materials and products is urgent. Non-thermal atmospheric plasma (cold atmospheric plasma—CAP) has recently attracted great research interest as an alternative for operative solutions of problems related to safety and quality control. CAP is a powerful tool for the inactivation of different hazardous microorganisms and viruses, and the effective decontamination of surfaces and liquids has been demonstrated. Additionally, the plasma’s active components are strong oxidizers and their synergetic effect can lead to the degradation of toxic chemical compounds such as phenols and azo-dyes.
Highlights
-friendly method for the removal of undesirable compounds now is very urgent in the growing implementation of the circular economy model
These targeted actions are required for the mitigation of risks related to the presence of hazardous microorganisms or substances in waste streams, and their potential entrance into new processes
Non-thermal atmospheric plasma has recently attracted great research interest as an innovative alternative for the operative solution of some acute problems related to safety and quality control, such as inactivation of hazardous microorganisms and viruses, and the degradation of toxic chemical substances
Summary
Our contemporary society is facing many environmental challenges due to the unprecedented level of industrialization, urbanization, and exponential growth of the human population. It is clear that we urgently need new advanced approaches ensuring both microbiological safety and the removal of potential chemical residues in different materials and products, with quick achievement of the high safety level, easy operation, lack of residual toxicity, and wide use with no application restrictions [11–13]. Facing these scientific and practical challenges, it seems that one well-known physical phenomenon—plasma—and some recently developed plasma-based technologies can effectively respond to these requirements. The last section is a brief resume and discussion of the potential of cold argon atmospheric plasma for future uses in a circular economy context
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
