There are three types of sterilization that are commonly used. Heat Sterilization Wet heat sterilization or autoclaving is probably the most effective form of sterilization. An effective autoclaving cycle would be approximately 15 minutes to effectively dispatch all microbial contamination. Certification of sterilizing efficacy can be accomplished by spore analysis on instrument and container type. Dry heat sterilization is less effective than autoclaving and hence the cycle is of a longer duration.
Incineration is an effective means of decontamination.
It is advantageous as a means of disposal of varying forms of potentially infectious waste. Vapor or Gas sterilization is used primarily for the sterilization of Biological Safety Cabinets, bulky equipment unsuitable for disinfection, and instruments or instrument optics that may be damaged by other forms of decontamination. There are many types of vapors that may be employed in this type of sterilization. At present, this form of sterilization is not used at the University of Memphis. Radiation is used for inactivation of microorganisms.