Development of a Disinfecting Fog-based Hand Wash Machine

The need for optimal hand hygiene has been emphasized across various sectors, such as in areas where clean water is scarce and in health facilities where infection prevention is important. Traditional handwashing methods often fall short due to significant water wastage and potential cross-contamination. This study presents the development of a disinfecting fog-based hand wash machine designed to tackle these challenges. The machine utilizes a combination of ethanol, glycerin, aqua, triethanolamine, and hydrogen peroxide to create a disinfecting fog, leveraging the antimicrobial properties of ethanol and hydrogen peroxide. This approach is distinct in its minimal reliance on water and its ability to prevent cross-contamination by eliminating physical contact with dispensers and faucets. The prototype was tested in controlled environments, assessing its microbial reduction efficacy and operational efficiency. Preliminary results indicate a significant decrease in microbial presence on hands, surpassing traditional handwashing methods. Consequently, this machine provides an enhanced hand hygiene solution that ensures effective disinfection and aligns with sustainable practices by dramatically reducing water usage.