The use of ethylene oxide – abbreviated as EtO or EO – is among the commonly employed industrial sterilization methods. What does this technique involve, and which products is it suitable for? How long does EO sterilization take? All answers with IONISOS, an expert in the field for several decades.
What is the duration of EO sterilization?
Ethylene oxide sterilization is an effective but lengthy process. The various required phases involve treatment over several days, with the exact duration depending on three parameters:
- type of products to be sterilized;
- volume to be treated;
- specific project constraints.
The duration of ethylene oxide sterilization can be a limiting factor. However, this process ensures complete safety for the treated items: medical devices, industrial products made from resin, etc. Note that sterilization occurs once the items are packaged, which helps optimize operational costs.
How does EO sterilization work?
Ethylene oxide sterilization involves exposing products to this odorless gas at low temperature over an extended period. The only prerequisite is that packaging must be permeable to air; thickness, however, is not critical.
The EO sterilization cycle consists of five main steps:
- Preparation of products by heating and humidification;
- Definition of gas concentration and required exposure time;
- Sterilization with ethylene oxide under vacuum in a sealed chamber;
- Degassing phase to gradually remove the ethylene oxide;
- Static aeration to evacuate any remaining particles.
When should EO sterilization be chosen?
This technique is an alternative to radiation sterilization (gamma, electron beam, or X-rays). In other words, EO sterilization is recommended if the use of ionizing rays is contraindicated or could damage the products.
EO sterilization has clear advantages, particularly its broad range of applications. The medical and pharmaceutical industries frequently use this method to ensure the sterility of devices and equipment. Professionals in electronics or plastics also often exploit ethylene oxide’s properties.
IONISOS offers its expertise to determine the best sterilization technique and ensure impeccable quality. Since 1956, the group has continuously innovated to provide industrial clients with increasingly efficient solutions while maintaining control over timelines and treatment costs.
Why choose IONISOS for EO sterilization?
One of the group’s strengths lies in the specialization of its treatment centers. Since 2004, three sites offer EO sterilization: Civrieux-d’Azergues and Gien in France, and Cleves in Germany.
The Cleves site is one of the most modern in the world for ethylene oxide sterilization. Fully automated, it holds ISO 9001, 13485, and 45001 certifications. For more information, contact IONISOS.
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