An ionizing radiation is an emission of energy that has the ability to transform the atoms it passes through into ions.
This type of radiation has been used since the 1960s for industrial sterilization because the ionization process disrupts the molecules of the microorganisms present on and inside objects.
The IONISOS group presents in more detail the advantages of this technique, as well as its beta and gamma sterilization services to meet all your needs.
The sterilization by ionizing radiation is one of the most favored sterilization techniques in the industrial world, especially in the pharmaceutical and medical sectors.
It actually encompasses three distinct techniques: X-rays, gamma rays, and beta rays. IONISOS offers services for the latter two. These rays have different natures but share the unique ability to transform atoms and molecules into ions as they pass through, thanks to their ionizing particles, thus allowing the destruction of harmful agents present.
The main advantage of this type of sterilization? It allows products to be treated directly in their final packaging at room temperature, without the addition of chemicals. Once the treatment is complete, the products are immediately available with the usual verifications since no post-treatment phase is necessary to eliminate potential residues, as is the case with ethylene oxide treatment.
Additionally, an entire load can be sterilized, packaged by boxes or pallets, in just a few hours.
Finally, this sterilization method is compatible with a wide range of polymers and plastics, as well as metals and liquids.
The process of sterilization by ionizing radiation varies depending on the method applied. Regarding the techniques offered by IONISOS (beta and gamma), sterilization occurs as follows:
Gamma Ray Sterilization: Products, packaged in cartons or pallets, are placed on an automatic conveyor system that moves at a specific speed so that the products receive a predetermined treatment dose based on the nature of the products, their bacteriology, density, and properties. The products pass through a concrete chamber and come close to a cobalt-60 source emitting gamma rays.
Beta Ray Sterilization: Products are packaged in parcels and also loaded onto an automatic conveyor to pass under a beam of accelerated electrons. Each parcel is exposed to a specific dose of radiation for a few seconds, with an automatic flipping mechanism allowing the packages to be treated on both sides, first upright and then upside down.
Quality controls on treated products are performed by IONISOS after treatment and before delivery, as well as sterilization validation tests before treatment to determine the exposure dose.
IONISOS has 7 ionization treatment sites across France and Europe: 4 for gamma and 3 for beta.
Our various facilities enable us to handle all order volumes and adapt to your needs for quick delivery.
Choosing IONISOS also means benefiting from tailored support with a dedicated contact for high-quality service. This representative will answer all your questions and guide you toward the most suitable technique for your products, ensuring optimal health safety.
The history of IONISOS dates back to 1956, when the Centre Lyonnais d’Application Atomique was established. It was the first company specializing in ionizing radiation sterilization. Five years later, the first gamma ray treatment center opened.
In 1997, the company, now known as IONISOS, began using a new type of radiation. The use of electron beams, also called ebeam, was complemented in 2004 by ethylene oxide (EtO) treatment.
Recently, a new technique joined the already used ionizing radiation sources. IONISOS now utilizes the properties of X-rays for sterilization.
With solid expertise in industrial sterilization, IONISOS offers personalized support to all its clients. The group operates 12 treatment centers, each dedicated to a specific technique. IONISOS focuses on key values: innovation, quality, and responsiveness.
Different energy sources produce ionizing rays, each with specific characteristics. X-ray sterilization offers clear advantages for industry:
These benefits are particularly relevant for the medical, pharmaceutical, and veterinary industries, as well as for cosmetics professionals. X-ray sterilization also provides a solution for products incompatible with other ionizing radiation sources.
In 2025, IONISOS will inaugurate a brand-new industrial X-ray sterilization site. It is located in Henriville, Moselle, near the German, Belgian, and Dutch borders. This strategic location facilitates access for European companies to a state-of-the-art industrial sterilization service.
Since 1990, BREEAM certification has assessed the environmental performance of industrial, commercial, and residential buildings. There are several certification levels; IONISOS achieved the “Excellent” rating.
Many criteria are evaluated:
Sustainable development is at the core of IONISOS’s policy. The group also participates in the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), which supports companies in reducing their carbon emissions. IONISOS thus demonstrates that advanced sterilization technology can go hand in hand with a strong CSR approach.
Contact us today to benefit from the best in industrial sterilization!