How does radiation sterilization work?

Question

Radiation Sterilization of Medical Products

How does this process work?

What methods are used to produce the radiation?

Once treated, are these sterilized instruments radioactive?

What are the advantages of radiation sterilization compared to other techniques?

Why are many products unable to be sterilized using steam or heat?

What are the disadvantages of sterilization via chemical processes?

Answer 1

!. A strong source of ionizing radiation, usually gamma radiation is applied to medical products of such a strength and duration to kill all the bacteria and viruses which may be on/in them. The use of highly radioactive material (cobalt 60 is common) or an electrically produced radiation field is used. One of the major advantage is it can be performed after it has been packaged and sealed, preventing re-contamination.

2, The equipment does not become radioactive, it would take a neutron field to cause material to become radioactive.

3. Many items that would be severely damaged by heat or steam are relatively unaffected by radiation.

4. Chemical treatments may leave toxic residue on the medical products.

Answer 2

it kills all living matter using high frquency radiation which can be generated like a bulb works but with different metals and amounts of energy needed or a radioactive material.