Lethal Effect of Alternating Current on Yeast Cells

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A non-agglomerating strain of Saccharomyces ellipsoideus suspended in grape juice was exposed to a 60 cycle current for 1-15 min. at current densities of 0.063 to 0.14 amperes per cm2. Carbon electrodes 2.5 cm. and 1.1 cm. in diameter were used. By cooling with water, the suspensions under electrical treatment were maintained at 43[degree] C. (ave.). The potential drop across the suspension was approximately 20 volts. The per cent kill for 1-5 min. was 44.5-96%, which was nearly a straight line function of the current density. The per cent kill for 5-15 min. exposure was 96-99.9%. Formation of toxic substances in the solutions was not detected, although slight electrolysis occurred. The yeast grew equally well in treated and untreated grape juice. It is concluded that alternating current exerts a killing effect on yeast cells independent of temperature but dependent upon current density and quantity of electricity.

This publication has 3 references indexed in Scilit: