Vapor sterilization using inorganic hydrogen peroxide complexes

摘要

An apparatus and process for hydrogen peroxide vapor sterilization of medical instruments and similar devices make use of hydrogen peroxide vapor released from an inorganic hydrogen peroxide complex. The peroxide vapor can be released at room temperature and atmospheric pressure; however, the pressure used can be less than 50 torr and the temperature greater than 86 DEG C to facilitate the release of hydrogen peroxide vapor. Preferred hydrogen peroxide complexes for use in the invention include Na4P2O7.3H2O2 and KH2PO4.H2O2. The heating rate can be greater than 5 DEG C. Optionally, a plasma can be used in conjunction with the vapor. <IMAGE>