Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to separating a gas, such as chlorine dioxide, from a solution. In another aspect of the invention, the separated gas is then used for the sterilization or sanitation of items, such as food, food storage containers, other food contact surfaces, medical devices, and the like. In yet another aspect of the invention, that gas is then decomposed or otherwise neutralized after contacting the item. In yet another aspect of the invention, the separated gas is dissolved or otherwise introduced into a pure solution, such as water, to form highly pure solution containing the gas.