Bio-Osmo Shock

Semi-permeable cell membrane similar to the Reverse Osmosis membrane covers cytoplasm of such organisms as bacteria, algae, and fungi. 
 


The HS solution sucks up water from the bacteria's cytoplasm as well as from the permeate channel of the RO membrane. The cell membrane shrinks and detaches from the cell wall, which is rigid and does not shrink. Separation of the cell membrane from the cell wall is fatal for bacteria, algae and fungi.  This is the oldest sterilization method.