Ionizing radiation

Ionizing Radiation: Discover Our Custom Sterilization Service

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.

Sterilization Technique: Why Choose Sterilization by Ionization?

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.

How Does Ionizing Radiation Treatment Work?

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.

Personalized Support with IONISOS

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.

Contact us today to benefit from the best in industrial sterilization!