Abstract: This invention serves to repurpose existing ethylene oxide sterilization chambers utilizing a novel chemical means of sterilization. Ethylene oxide is a longstanding gaseous sterilant for medical devices but has increasing problems associated with its hazards. Ethylene oxide is a carcinogenic and explosive chemical, and its emissions can be very harmful and cause serious health risks. Due to this, the FDA and many medical device manufacturers are trying to reduce or eliminate the use of the gas. Chlorine dioxide gas is a nearly identical alternative mode of sterilization that is non-carcinogenic and non-explosive. If firms choose to eliminate the use of ethylene oxide but do not want to waste the capital expenditure on existing sterilizers, they can instead utilize the ethylene oxide-to-chlorine dioxide conversion system of the present invention and use an effective and environmentally friendly form of sterilization in a system they already possess.

Abstract: This invention serves to repurpose existing ethylene oxide sterilization chambers utilizing a novel chemical means of sterilization. Ethylene oxide is a longstanding gaseous sterilant for medical devices but has increasing problems associated with its hazards. Ethylene oxide is a carcinogenic and explosive chemical, and its emissions can be very harmful and cause serious health risks. Due to this, the FDA and many medical device manufacturers are trying to reduce or eliminate the use of the gas. Chlorine dioxide gas is a nearly identical alternative mode of sterilization that is non-carcinogenic and non-explosive. If firms choose to eliminate the use of ethylene oxide but do not want to waste the capital expenditure on existing sterilizers, they can instead utilize the ethylene oxide-to-chlorine dioxide conversion system of the present invention and use an effective and environmentally friendly form of sterilization in a system they already possess.