Sterilization method

摘要

Apparatus and method for sterilizing articles includes a sealed first enclosure made at least partially of a gas-permeable plastic film and a sealed container releasably containing a gaseous sterilant under pressure, the container being enclosed within the first enclosure. An openable second enclosure made at least partially of a gas-permeable plastic film is also provided and the first enclosure and the articles to be sterilized are disposed in the second enclosure. The sterilant which is characterized by toxicity and flammability when released from its container diffuses from the first enclosure into the second enclosure at a rate capable of establishing sterilization conditions in the second enclosure during a sterilization cycle to thereby effect sterilization of the articles in the second enclosure. A third enclosure is also provided in which the second enclosure containing the articles to be sterilized is disposed. A flushing system introduces a flushing medium into the second enclosure to flush out the sterilizing gas therein during a flushing cycle following completion of the sterilization cycle and conducts the sterilant gas and air to a remote area, whereby the flushing system minimizes the extent of residue sterilant gas in the work surrounding the apparatus.