How to test the resistance of bacterial spores to H2O2 on various materials
Technik
D-value estimation
Test description
Discussion
Key Words: hydrogen peroxide, bacterial spores, surface decontamination, D-value, material properties
Abstract
The efficacy of surface decontamination processes using vapor-phase hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) can vary on different materials. Bacterial spores on stainless steel carriers are widely used as biological indicators (BIs) to characterize H2O2 decontamination. However, different materials like other metals, glass and plastics can be present as part of isolator chambers, pharmaceutical equipment, packaging and disposables. To test the decontamination efficiency, a known number of spores is inoculated on samples of different materials and exposed to a well-defined decontamination cycle. Using the fractional negative method, D-values for each material can be determined. These D-values are a measure for how easily surfaces are decontaminated, indicating the time required to achieve a 10-fold reduction of bacteria under given conditions. The D-values of sample materials are put in context to those of reference stainless steel carriers obtained during simultaneous testing. This allows to identify and select appropriate materials for robust decontamination processes.
 | Simon Kemmerling, PhD Researcher, SKAN AG Simon Kemmerling joined SKAN AG in 2021 as a researcher in the Research and Strategic Business Development department. As an interdisciplinary natural scientist with a keen interest in innovative and next generation technology, he is working on different research topics, such as H2O2 sensing, material testing and various other aspects related to the decontamination process. In this role he is conducting and supporting internal as well as external scientific studies. |
 | Max Mittelviefhaus, PhD Head Research and SKANalytix, SKAN AG Max Mittelviefhaus is a |
