Abstract: Each of a plurality of modules (A) have fitings (14) with automatically closed check valves (16) therein such that the interior of the module is sealed. The module is selectively interconnected with a sterilizer apparatus (B). Interconnecting tubing (60) selectively supplied liquid from a reservoir (30) to the module. A sterilant injection chamber (56) receives and punctures a sterilant ampule such that incoming water mixes with the sterilant concentrate forming a sterilant solution which is carried to the reservoir. A reservoir outlet valve (70) selectively permits the sterilant solution to pass from the reservoir through the interconnecting tubing into the module until the module and interconnecting tubing are completely filled. Thereafter, the reservoir outlet valve closes holding the sterilant in the interconnecting tubing as well as the module for sufficient duration to sterilize both. Concurrently, additional tap water is heated in the reservoir until it is sterile.

Abstract: A cylindrical, transparent capsule (10) is less than half filled with a liquid culture medium (12). An open end of the capsule is closed by supporting annulus (24) and a vent tube (28) having a vent aperture (30) at a free end thereof. The vent aperture is disposed at a volumetric center of the capsule such that an upper surface of the liquid culture medium is disposed below the vent aperture in any orientation of the capsule (FIG. 2). A heat labile membrane (32) which becomes porous in the presence of steam seals the vent passage but provided a pressure escape from the capsule at steam sterilizing temperatures. A disk inoculated with microorganisms is supported by the annular support. A cap (40) is slidably movable between a first position (FIG. 1) in which apertures (42) provide a liquid flow path between the inoculated disk and the exterior and a second position (FIG. 3) in which a severing ring (46) severs the support annulus bringing the inoculated disk and the culture medium into contact (FIG. 4).