An electrostatic system.

An electrostatic system that reduces airborne dust and microorganisms in poultry houses could also help sterilize Salmonella and other pathogenic bacteria in the dust. The system uses an electrostatic charge to trap airborne dust that harbors the organisms. Researchers have found that the electrostatic charge seems to show a strong sterilizing effect on both airborne and surface Salmonella and other pathogenic bacteria. The kill rate on airborne and surface S. enteritidis at close range has been 95% or more in a research setting. Work is necessary to determine efficacy in the commercial sector. The system also has reduced biofilms up to 99.8% when used at close range. Contact: Bailey Mitchell, USDA-ARS Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory, 934 College Station Rd., Athens, GA 30605. Phone: [phone]. Fax: [phone]. Email: [e-mail].