What it means
An agent able to sterilize, not just disinfect, when used as directed. Examples are ethylene oxide gas, hydrogen peroxide gas plasma, peracetic acid, and glutaraldehyde with a long enough contact time. Many sterilants are also used at shorter contact times as high-level disinfectants. Sterilants are registered and labeled by the FDA or EPA.
At a glance
| Also written | sterilants, chemical sterilant |
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Related terms
sterilization
A process that destroys all microorganisms, including spores, on an item; also a permanent birth control procedure.
glutaraldehyde
A liquid chemical used for high-level disinfection, or sterilization with longer soaking, of heat-sensitive medical devices.
sterilizer
A machine that kills all germs, including spores, on instruments and supplies.
sporicidal
Able to kill bacterial spores, the tough resting forms of some bacteria.