Device for hydrogen peroxide sterilization

Abstract

The invention relates to the sterilization of a load of goods with hydrogen peroxide vapor in a closed space. The method involves a sequence of creating a sub-atmospheric pressure in a sterilization chamber, introduction of vaporized hydrogen peroxide and the use of a gas circulation device within the sterilization chamber, whereby the output of the gas circulation device is controlled according to the pressure in the sterilization chamber. A uniform and consistent distribution of hydrogen peroxide throughout the load is achieved.

Having described the invention, the following is claimed: 
     
         1 . An apparatus for sterilizing a load of goods, said apparatus comprising
 a chamber for receiving a load of goods to be sterilized, said chamber having a jacket for a heat transfer medium as well as gas inlets and gas outlets;   a device for delivering a heat-controlled heat transfer medium to the jacket; within the chamber,   a gas circulation device capable of delivering a constant volume flow at variable velocities;   a device for producing vaporized hydrogen peroxide: and   a device for producing sub-atmospheric pressures within the chamber.   
     
     
         2 . An apparatus according to  claim 1 , wherein the gas circulation device is a centrifugal fan. 
     
     
         3 . An apparatus according to  claim 1 , further comprising a device for introducing pressurized steam and/or air to the chamber. 
     
     
         4 . An apparatus according to  claim 2 , further comprising a device for introducing pressurized steam and/or air to the chamber.