What is gamma sterilized?

Gamma irradiation is a physical/chemical means of sterilization, because it kills bacteria by breaking down bacterial DNA, inhibiting bacterial division. Energy of gamma rays passes through the equipment, disrupting the pathogens that cause contamination.

How is gamma sterilization done?

Gamma irradiation sterilization is performed by exposing the product to a radiation source, typically Cobalt 60 isotope, which decomposes into Nickel 60 isotope, firing off gamma rays in the process. These gamma rays can penetrate through the entire product, deactivating whatever microorganisms may be present.

Is gamma ray sterilization safe?

Gamma irradiation provides a number of benefits in cost and sterility assurance. It can be applied under safe, well-defined, and controlled operating parameters, and is not a heat- or moisturegenerating process. Consequently, there is no heat stress and condensate drainage or outgassing is not required.

What is the difference between E beam and gamma sterilization?

E-beam irradiation is very similar to gamma radiation sterilization as being an ionizing energy but the difference is its high dosage rates and low penetration. Another difference is the use of e-beams which has a source of electricity producing high charge of electrons.

How long does gamma sterilization take?

The entire process can take from a few hours to several days depending on the volume of product being processed. The two common irradiator types are continuous and batch.

What materials can be gamma sterilized?

Gamma radiation is compatible with many plastics, all metals, and glass (subject to color change). Some polymers, however, are affected either by embrittlement, discoloration, or degradation. Note that gamma rays generate free radicals that can further react and degrade the materials.

How much does gamma radiation cost?

2) Gamma radiation is an inexpensive and logistically simple process–The cost of having the infested materials treated with gamma radiation at a commercial radiation plant was $1.00 per cubic foot.

What is the difference between gamma radiation and gamma irradiation?

Differences in terms of explanation In terms of explanation, it can be said that Radiation is the number of photons that are being emitted by a single source. Irradiation, on the other hand, is one where the radiation is falling on the surface is being calculated.

What is gamma radiation used for?

Gamma rays are ionizing electromagnetic radiation, obtained by the decay of an atomic nucleus. Gamma rays are more penetrating, in matter, and can damage living cells to a great extent. Gamma rays are used in medicine (radiotherapy), industry (sterilization and disinfection) and the nuclear industry.

What damage can gamma rays cause?

Gamma rays have so much penetrating power that several inches of a dense material like lead, or even a few feet of concrete may be required to stop them. Gamma rays can pass completely through the human body; as they pass through, they can cause ionizations that damage tissue and DNA.

Are gamma rays used in chemotherapy?

What is radiation therapy? Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to shrink tumors and kill cancer cells (1). X-rays, gamma rays, and charged particles are types of radiation used for cancer treatment.