ETHYLENE OXIDE STERILIZATION RATES AND PROTECTIVE INFLUENCES
Abstract
A review of the literature on ethylene oxide sterilization is presented. This review shows that the death rate of microorganisms exposed to ethylene oxide is dependent on such variables as oxide concentration, relative humidity, temperature, and the type of microorganism involved plus the protective influences of its surrounding medium. In many respects, ethylene oxide resembles heat, whose sterilizing effect also depends on concentration (temperature), relative humidity and the specific microorganism and its surrounding medium. Heat, however, penetrates more readily and sterilizes material interiors, while ethylene oxide's ability to penetrate varies with the material involved. Thus, ethylene oxide is recommended primarily as a surface sterilant.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0821461
Entities
People
- Robert K. Hoffman