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Sterilization Definition- Chemistry

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Sterilization is defined as any physical or chemical technique that destroys all forms of life, is most commonly used to eliminate bacteria, spores, and viruses. Sterilization is the full elimination of all microorganisms by the use of an appropriate chemical agent or heat.
This article includes the definition of Sterilization and various methods to do sterilization.

Definition of Sterilization

Sterilization is defined as the process of destroying or eliminating all kinds of microbial life in healthcare facilities using physical or chemical means. For instance, Hydrogen peroxide is a liquid chemical sterilizing agent that is a strong oxidant and may destroy a wide variety of germs. It is useful for sterilizing heat or temperature-sensitive equipment such as endoscopes. A higher concentration (35-90 percent) is used in medical applications.
Some different types of sterilization are listed below:

  • Sterilization with steam.
  • Dry Heat Sterilization.
  • Sterilization with Ethylene Oxide “Gas.”
  • The plasma of Hydrogen Peroxide Gas
  • Sterilization with peracetic acid.

Decontamination methods include disinfection and sterilization. Disinfection is the process of removing or reducing hazardous bacteria from inanimate items and surfaces, whereas sterilization is the process of destroying all microorganisms.
Sterilization is vital since it kills all germs, viruses, and illnesses. Disinfection methods used before and after medical treatments help to limit germ transmission. It is important to safeguard not just patients but also medical personnel.

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Umair Javaid, PhD Student
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