Abstract: An apparatus for sterilization comprises a treatment chamber (1) with constant temperature control (3, 4, 5) connected to a source of vacuum (6, 7, 8, 9), and to a circuit for admitting a carrier gas comprising a means (10) for sterilizing a gas and a means (14) for heating the gas at constant temperature as well as a steam generator (16) connected to a water supply (19) and to a system (20) for controlling the temperature and/or pressure (20). In addition, a sterilizing gas generator (21) contains a solution of a sterilizing agent (22) and is equipped with means for heating and/or cooling and for temperature control (24, 25, 26, 27). Also, suitable means (33) for circulating the atmosphere in the chamber (1) in contact with the solution (22) are provided.

Abstract: A sterilization method comprising subjecting a sterilization chamber to an initial vacuum and then introducing steam to increase chamber pressure. The introduction of steam is interrupted and the chamber is brought into communication with a solution in a gaseous sterilant generator. The mixture of gaseous sterilant and chamber atmosphere are continuously circulated whereby equilibrium is established and the material to be sterilized is subject to constant temperature, pressure, sterilant concentration, and relative humidity for a period of time sufficient for sterilization. Also disclosed is an apparatus capable of performing the sterilization method comprising a sterilization chamber in combination with a gaseous sterilant generator. Formaldehyde is the preferred sterilizing agent.