Abstract: A sterilization biological test pack includes a first plurality of apertured planar sheets of substantially porous paper disposed to form a stack. Each of the sheets defines a generally centrally disposed aperture, the apertures operatively defining together a single cavity extending through the stack. Second and third pluralities of unapertured planar sheets of substantially porous paper are disposed on opposed sides of the stack and aligned therewith to close the stack cavity at either end thereof and define a chamber about the cavity configured and dimensioned to receive a biological indicator. The first, second and third pluralities together define a sheet pad. A tray formed of unapertured gas-inhibiting material, has a base coextensive and aligned with the exposed side of the third plurality and four sidewalls transverse to the base together substantially covering the exposed edges of the pad. The tray and the pad together define an assembly.

Abstract: A sterilization biological test pack comprises a first plurality of apertured planar sheets of substantially porous paper disposed to form a stack. Each of the sheets defines a generally centrally disposed aperture, the apertures operatively defining together a single cavity extending through the stack. Second and third pluralities of unapertured planar sheets of substantially porous paper are disposed on opposed sides of the stack and aligned therewith to close the stack cavity at either end thereof and define a chamber about the cavity configured and dimensioned to receive a biological indicator. Fourth and fifth pluralities of unapertured planar sheets of paper of intermediate porosity are disposed on exposed sides of the third and fourth pluralities, respectively, and aligned therewith.

Abstract: A disposable package is adapted to simulate the steam permeability and other qualities of the linen pack previously used to test the functioning of a steam sterilizer using a biological test device. The biological test device comprises spores on an appropriate carrier, either in a self-contained biological device or as a spore strip. The biological test device is placed within applicant's specially constructed package and the package is placed within the sterilizer, which is then cycled through a conventional sterilization cycle. During the sterilization cycle, applicant's package simulates the standard sterilizer linen pack previously used for such tests. After the sterilization cycle, sterility of the spore preparation is evaluated by incubating the spores in a culture medium to determine whether the spore population has been adequately destroyed.