How safe is E-Beam Sterilization?
The short answer is that E-Beam sterilization is very safe. The process is FDA approved and recognized and accepted by ISO. For over 60 years, E-Beam sterilization has offered a safe and environmentally-friendly process.
Is E-Beam sterilization the safest option?
E-Beam is by far the safest sterilization option, especially when compared to Gamma. That is not to say that Gamma is not an effective or proven technology, but there are significant benefits of utilizing E-Beam:
Penetration: E-Beam starts out as very high energy electrons that can destroy bioburden directly. These high energy electrons have the ability to collide with local electrons, giving them enough energy to also break down bioburden. Each ensuing collision of the E-Beam reduces its energy until there is no penetrating power left. Gamma rays penetrate further into a material to sporadically collide with an electron to give those electrons enough energy to destroy the bioburden. This means that the gamma ray may continue to trigger high energy electrons as it travels.
Dose Rate: The dose rate between E-Beam and Gamma is probably the biggest difference between the two sterilization technologies. Gamma radiation has a high penetration with a low dose rate, while E-Beam has a high dose rate and low penetration. Gamma is utilized over a period of 6-10 hour cycle. E-beam, on the other hand, is operated as a continuous process that delivers a required dose in as few as two minutes as the material passes by the E-Beam accelerator. The lower processing time is less stressful to materials.
When trying to decide between E-Beam and gamma ray sterilization, there are many factors to consider, but the safety of the technology is the most important. If you’re ready to switch to the E-Beam, Steri-Tek can help. Reach out to us today.