Is It Safe to Sterilize Your Medical Device?
Ethylene oxide sterilization of medical devices containing stored energy
Ethylene oxide (EO) processing is a common sterilization technique for electronic and other heat- and moisture-sensitive medical devices because it is effective in a relatively low-temperature and relatively low-humidity environment, has good penetrability, and is chemically compatible with a wide range of materials, including most plastics.
While there are many benefits to EO as a sterilization agent, one significant drawback is its flammability. EO can form explosive mixtures that can be ignited across a broad range of concentrations. Sufficient energy (from an electrical spark or hot surface) in the presence of EO can initiate an explosive chain reaction with very serious potential risks to life and property.
