Chlorine dioxide is a sterilant that is a true gas at room temperatures, meaning it naturally distributes
uniformly and completely within the space being decontaminated. It distributes
the same way that oxygen does in a room, with the level of oxygen being the
same throughout. This level of distribution is excellent when compared to vapor
phase hydrogen peroxide, mists or fogs.
Chlorine Dioxide Gas: Example of Even Distribution & Penetration vs. Thermal
Image of a Vapor Phase Hydrogen Peroxide Cycle: Example of Poor
Distribution
Hydrogen peroxide has been labeled as a
“lazy gas” which doesn’t distribute readily. VPHP will start condensing back to
the liquid state upon exiting the generator, and it is distributed throughout
the chamber/room through line of sight injection. The vapor can be blocked by
objects in its way, leaving the surfaces behind or underneath uncontacted or
under-contacted. As such, the back side, underside, and internal portions of
components may not be contacted by VPHP for a long enough period of time, at
the proper concentration, to achieve the correct level of kill. If the
decontaminating agent cannot reach ALL of the dangerous organisms in a critical
environment, such as a BSL-3/4 facility, at the proper concentration, for the
prescribed amount of time, then a complete decontamination will not occur and
worker safety is compromised.
Learn more about the process and benefits of chlorine
dioxide gas on April 10th at our CD 101 webinar or attend one of
our upcoming workshops. Click here
to see when we will be in your area!
