Electron beam (“E-Beam”) irradiation works by scanning products with high energy electrons. To produce the high-energy electrons, a linear accelerator takes normal grid electricity and uses radio waves to accelerate electrons to nearly the speed of light. These electrons are “scanned” up and down by a magnetic field, creating a curtain of high-speed electrons through which products are moved via conveyor. In sterilization applications, these high-energy electrons create radiation inside the product itself, which destroys bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants by breaking apart genetic material and other molecules that microorganisms need to grow and multiply. The irradiation/sterilization process occurs inside a large concrete bunker, which is designed and tested to contain the radiation produced. An automated conveyor system carries products through the treatment area. One of the most attractive benefits of the E-Beam process is that it can be the final step in producing sterile product: in most cases, complete cartons of products can be safely irradiated.