Technology

How It Works

Synergy between Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂) and Ozone (O₃)

The microbiocidal efficacy of the STERIZONE^® 125L+ Sterilizer is due to the action of free radicals formed by the two sterilizing agents in this process: hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and ozone (O₃). The mode of action for these two chemicals on microorganisms is complex and specifically relates to the formation of free radicals such as HO•, O₂•-, HO₂•, HO₃•, HO₄• and other reactive species. In this oxidative sterilization process, the radicals are formed first by the hydrogen peroxide and then by the reaction of ozone with the hydrogen peroxide, water, and radicals already present in the chamber. Ozone has a similar effect to plasma on the hydrogen peroxide molecule in competitive technologies. However, the effect of ozone on hydrogen peroxide is not limited to only the accessible surface of devices, as in the case of plasma; ozone can penetrate lumens and hard-to-reach geometries.

Vaporized hydrogen peroxide and ozone have been used as agents for sterilization and disinfection for many years. When mixed together, they become a very powerful oxidizing agent, often referred to in scientific literature as a peroxone or perozone process. During the combining process, highly reactive particles such as hydroxyl radicals (HO•) are formed. These radicals react by oxidizing a wide variety of organic compounds. These processes are also called advanced oxidation processes (AOP). AOPs are characterized by the generation of hydroxyl radicals via various combinations of chemical and physical agents such as ozone, UV and hydrogen peroxide.