Carbolic Steam Spray

3D Model

This device, used in operating theatres in the 1870s and 1880s, filled the air with a pungent, yellow mist of an antiseptic called carbolic acid. British surgeon Joseph Lister invented it, hoping it would kill airborne bacteria, reducing the chance of infection during surgery.

Use our 3D carbolic steam spray model in the classroom to bring your curriculum teaching to life: https://learning-resources.sciencemuseum.org.uk/resources/listers-carbolic-spray

Find out more in the Science Museum Group online collection: https://collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/objects/co163555/