In contrast to other agents (such as air) water has the ability due to its high specific heat to absorb a tremendous amount of energy at a constant temperature of 100°C when transforming from water to steam. This energy is released in the soil for disinfection.
As a result this method obtains a particularly high degree of efficiency with which all organic pathogens are killed at sufficient time of exposure.
Due to the relatively low temperatures of just up to 100°C during the condensation process, soil is prevented from damage. In contrast to the usage of dry heat (e.g. hot air) soil can not be burned and its fertility harmed.
Compared to other chemical agents, water vapor has a comprehensive sterilization effect on soil. All organic pathogens are affected by the humid heat and even killed after sufficient exposure.
Chemical agents only partially take effect, since they are focused on single pathogens only. If soil suffers from different diseases a chemical cocktail is necessary which can lead to enormous risks for the health and environment.
