Sterilization Process: 4 Advanced Technologies with IONISOS

Industrial sterilization is a crucial challenge in the medical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic sectors, and beyond. Choosing the right method is essential to effectively eliminate microorganisms without compromising product quality, as is the professionalism and responsiveness of the chosen service provider.

IONISOS is a recognized expert with over 60 years of experience in the field. We offer our clients 4 advanced technologies to meet all needs: ionizing sterilization (electron beam, gamma, X-rays) and ethylene oxide. Here, we present the sterilization processes of each technology.

4 sterilization processes carried out in dedicated centers in France and Europe

IONISOS currently offers 4 different sterilization methods for treating your products. Each method has a distinct treatment process that we apply in all of our dedicated centers in France and Europe.

Gamma Sterilization Process

The gamma sterilization process involves transporting the products to be treated, in their final packaging, by pallets on an automatic conveyor, passing them at a certain speed under a photon beam within a concrete chamber. The gamma rays are generated from the decay of a Cobalt-60 source.
Performed at room temperature, this operation allows entire loads to be treated in just a few hours.

Electron Beam Sterilization Process

As one of the most commonly used ionizing sterilization methods, along with gamma, electron beam sterilization (also known as beta or e-beam) is generally quite similar. It involves treating the products in their final packaging by parcel, passing them under an ionizing radiation beam for a few seconds, front and back, at a pre-set speed depending on the nature and density of the products. Here too, the sterilization operation is carried out at room temperature.

X-Ray Sterilization Process

The X-ray sterilization process is nearly identical to beta-ray treatment and combines the advantages of both beta and gamma sterilization methods.
The products to be treated are transported by pallets into an isolated chamber, where they pass under the radiation beam for a few seconds, both front and back. The treatment of an entire load is just as quick as with beta radiation, averaging a few hours depending on the speed and volume of the products.

Ethylene Oxide Sterilization: A Gas Treatment

For ethylene oxide, the sterilization process is entirely different, as gas treatment involves a distinct method.
The operation is conducted at low temperatures (between 30 and 60°C) within a sealed chamber, following a preconditioning phase in which the products are gently heated and humidified in a separate chamber. The gas is then diffused in a second chamber, adhering to specific criteria for gas concentration and exposure time based on the product composition and density. Afterward, the products are placed in a degassing chamber for 24 to 48 hours to remove any potential residues.

Why Choose IONISOS for Sterilizing Your Industrial Products?

IONISOS Group operates 11 certified treatment centers (6 in France, 1 in Spain, 2 in Germany, 1 in Estonia, and 1 in Switzerland), each dedicated to a specific method to efficiently meet our clients’ needs.
This allows us to respond to our clients’ requests with optimal responsiveness (even in emergencies), regardless of the volume of products to be treated.

Most importantly, by choosing our services, you benefit from personalized support with a dedicated representative who will guide you toward the most suitable method for your needs. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our rigorous approach from start to finish, including the validation of the sterilization method and on-site product inspections before delivery. You’ll enjoy a turnkey service with true peace of mind.

Sterilization process