Ionizing Particle

The Use of Ionizing Radiation in Industrial Sterilization

Known and used since the 1960s, ionizing radiation effectively destroys all microorganisms. This makes it one of the most reliable and efficient sterilization processes.

IONISOS explains what an ionizing particle is and why it is your best ally for a healthy industrial environment.

What is ionizing radiation?

“Ionizing radiation” refers to an emission of energy, sometimes accompanied by a beam of particles. This includes ionizing rays, which have the unique ability to alter the molecules they pass through. Specifically, they transform atoms into ions. There are four types of ionizing radiation: X-rays, alpha rays, gamma rays, and beta rays.

Our ionizing sterilization processes utilize gamma and beta rays. The former consists of photons that penetrate deeply into materials, while the latter is a beam of electrons with a lower penetration power but very high energy.

Ionizing Sterilization: Techniques and Treatment Process

Whether using gamma or beta rays, the ionization treatment follows a similar procedure. An automatic conveyor transports the products to a reinforced concrete protection chamber, where they are exposed to the selected radiation. The duration of this exposure varies depending on the specific requirements.

By disorganizing the molecular structure of pathogens and other microorganisms, ionizing radiation ensures their complete destruction.

The choice of radiation for sterilization depends on the type of products:

  • Beta sterilization: for ultra-fast treatment of products, reducing the risk of oxidation;
  • Gamma sterilization: for treating large volumes and/or products of varying compositions.

Why Use Industrial Sterilization by Ionization?

By altering the very structure of the molecule, exposure to beta and gamma rays rapidly destroys all present microorganisms. This technique is particularly employed in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.

Industrial sterilization by ionization offers essential advantages:

  • Treatment at room temperature
  • No addition of chemical compounds—thus no residues
  • Sterilization of products in their final packaging
  • The ability to treat multiple pallet orders in a reduced time
  • Compatibility with all types of materials (metals, plastics, polymers, liquids…)

IONISOS, Your Partner for Industrial Sterilization

Since 1956, our group has developed true expertise in the field of industrial sterilization. With four sites using gamma rays and three employing beta rays in Europe, we are able to provide you with responsiveness and efficiency.

Each ionization treatment site has its own laboratory for the sterility control of products. We also have flawless logistics, enabling us to process and ship your orders quickly, even urgent ones.

Each batch to be treated is monitored by a unique contact person, who remains available to answer your questions and ensure service fluidity. Your advisor is also able to recommend a specific sterilization technique based on your products and constraints.

Do you want to start a partnership with IONISOS? We are here to listen to any inquiries you may have.