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Cooling COVID-19 vaccines

  • marimac 

Oak Ridge National Laboratory researchers have retrofitted a commercial refrigeration container designed to ensure Covid-19 vaccines remain at ultra-low temperatures during long transport and while locally stored.

ORNL researchers proved that Covid-19 vaccines can be kept ultra-cool for an extended period in a retrofitted commercial storage container, providing a resource for safe delivery to remote locations. Image credit: RNL | US Dept of Energy
ORNL researchers proved that Covid-19 vaccines can be kept ultra-cool for an extended period in a retrofitted commercial storage container, providing a resource for safe delivery to remote locations. Image credit: RNL | US Dept of Energy

Most COVID vaccines, depending on the manufacturer, are stored at minus 70 or 30 degrees Celsius. Current transport methods use dry ice to maintain desired temperatures. However, longer travel times, particularly to remote locations without supportive infrastructure, require extended refrigeration.

In a study, researchers collaborated with Carrier and created a testbed using a lightweight aluminium container equipped with a refrigeration system, vaccine packages and optimal cargo layout and storage rack design that kept temperatures consistent and uniform throughout the container. Simulation studies demonstrated this method can hold required temperatures twice as long.

“We significantly increased the dry ice life, providing reliable temperature control and a safe, secure solution for cooling vaccines for transport and last mile storage,” ORNL’s Jian Sun said.

The full study can be read here.

Source: Oak Ridge National Laboratory