Electron Beam
Electron Beam (E-Beam) radiation is the sterilization method of choice for processing products of high volume/low-density, such as medical syringes, or low-volume/high-value products such as cardiothoracic devices.
What it is:
E-Beam radiation is a form of ionizing energy that is characterized by its low penetration and high dosage rates. The Beam - a concentrated, highly charged stream of electrons - is generated by accelerators capable of producing continuous or pulsed beams. As the product/material being sterilized passes beneath or in front of the E-Beam, energy from the electrons is absorbed, altering various chemical and biological bonds and destroying the DNA and reproductive capabilities of microorganisms.
Key Benefits:
While most materials manufactured for use in sterile healthcare products are formulated for radiation stability, some materials - certain polypropylenes, for example - experience less breakdown and long-term aging effects as a result of E-Beam's shorter exposure time. Other benefits include:
High speed, high capacity accelerators - Sterilizes low-density, uniformly packaged products quickly and effectively
Dosimetric Dosing - Eliminates post-sterilization testing and expedites distribution logistics
Material Modification - Electron Beam processing can be used to modify polymers, improve semiconductor switching speeds and change or enhance many other material properties.