Arktek Passive Vaccine Storage Device
Intellectual Ventures Lab - Global Good Program
The Arktek Passive Vaccine Storage Device is a vaccine storage device that can store up to 5 L of vaccines for over 35 days without the need of an external power supply.
The Arktek PSD, a passive storage device, is designed to keep vaccines at appropriate temperatures for a month or more with repeat vaccine retrievals and no need for electricity. It is easily implemented with no need for capitol improvements and has no complex parts to maintain or install. Using a single load of ice blocks for thermal energy storage, the Arktek PSD maintains EPI standard temperatures (0~10°C) for up to 5 liters of vaccines for a minimum 35 days in 43°C day time ambient temperatures. With monthly supplied ice blocks, the Arktek PSD can support vaccination services for a community of approximately 6,000 people. The Arktek PSD is helping to extend vaccination services in remote health posts lacking reliable grid power. This ruggedized vaccine carrier can store up to 300 vaccine doses for over a month. The carrier uses vacuum-insulated technology that allows repeat retrievals and includes a monitor that tracks location using GPS, internal temperature, and the number of retrievals, then transmits this information through USB connection or over SMS messaging.
The Arktek PSD is designed for communities of up to 6,000 people in remote regions of the world lacking grid power especially in GAVI countries. It is currently in use in Ethiopia, Senegal, Nigeria, Nepal, Fiji, Haiti, Pakistan, Ghana, Liberia, Mozambique, and Sierra Leone.
Global Good (collaboration between Intellectual Ventures and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation), AUCMA is moving Arktek into distribution in the communities with the lowest rates of vaccination.
1,200 – 2,400 USD per unit
Solar Fridge. An economic evaluation of these devices in various settings can be found in Vaccine.
Goal 3: Good health and well-being
Health care practitioners in rural regions and aid workers on vaccination campaigns, etc. especially in GAVI countries.