What are electron beams used to sterilize?
Electron-beam irradiation (e-beam – sometimes called beta irradiation) is a technique used commonly to sterilize pharmaceutical packaging products and medical devices. It operates by directing a continuous flow of electrons through the articles being sterilized.
What is E-beam irradiation?
Electron beam (E-Beam) irradiation 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.
How does electron beam sterilization work?
In electron beam sterilization, boxes of medical devices are put on a conveyor in a single layer. Harmful microorganisms are completely inactivated with minimal effect on the medical devices. As the electrons penetrate the products, the radiation dose diminishes so less radiation leaves the box then entered.
How does electron therapy work?
The treatment uses a very thin, non-penetrating electron beam to destroy cancer cells in the targeted area while allowing protection of healthy cells. It is particularly well-suited for treating cancer near the eyes, ears, nose or lips.
What is the function of electron beam?
Electron beams are used chiefly in research, technology, and medical therapy to produce X rays and images on television screens, oscilloscopes, and electron microscopes.
How does radiation sterilize medical equipment?
Radiation is used to sterilize medical instruments by first sealing a clean, but not bacteria-free, instrument in an air-tight bag. These ionizing radiations can kill the bacteria (cells); and the air-tight bag will keep the instrument sterile until the bag is opened in the medical facility.
What is beam radiation?
Beam radiation is the solar radiation received from the Sun without having been scattered by the atmosphere. Diffuse radiation is that received from the Sun after its direction has been changed by scattering by the atmosphere.
How is an electron beam used in sterilization?
Electron beam (E-Beam) irradiation 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 the E-Beam,
How often is an e-beam sterilization system used?
Because of their relatively high capital investment and low staffing requirements, sterilization systems are normally operated around the clock on a two- or three-shift basis. Most E-beam systems will maximize their effective performance at usage levels above 7000 operating hours per year.
What can electron beam processing be used for?
Electron Beam Processing The electron beam (E-beam) irradiation process uses high-energy electrons for a variety of applications, such as the sterilization of single-use medical devices, contamination control of consumer products, and modification of materials, such as heat shrink tubing, wire and cables and molded parts.
What are the benefits of electron beam irradiation?
Main Technology Benefits of Electron Beam. E-beam irradiation can deliver the irradiating dose in just a few seconds, meaning that the entire process can take place in minutes. As a result of this short exposure period the following benefits have been found: Shorter processing times. Improved supply chain efficiencies.