S.S. Seward Institute InvenTeam

The S.S. Seward Institute InvenTeam invented a portable, solar-powered autoclave to sterilize medical or dental instruments by generating steam at a temperature of 121°C at 15 psi for 15 min. This device allows healthcare professionals to use sterile instruments even when they are far from electricity and cannot obtain or carry supplies of non-reusable instruments. The autoclave uses the sun to provide the energy to produce pressurized steam and can be carried by one person. This device makes more sophisticated medical care available to people in developing countries with limited access to medical facilities.