Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
(continued)
Instrument
Feature
Image
Autoclave
An autoclave is a device used to sterilize equipment and supplies by
subjecting them to high-pressure saturated steam at 121 C for around
15-20 min depending on the size of the load and the contents. The name
comes from Greek
clavis
meaning key—a self-locking device. Autoclaves are widely used in
microbiology, medicine, tattooing, body piercing, veterinary science,
mycology, dentistry, chiropody, and prosthetics fabrication. They vary in
size and function depending on the media to be sterilized. Typical loads
include laboratory glassware, surgical instruments, medical waste, patient
pair utensils, and animal cage bedding. A notable growing application of
autoclaves is the predisposal treatment and sterilization of waste material,
such as pathogenic hospital waste. Machines in this category largely
operate under the same principles as conventional autoclaves in that they
are able to neutralize potentially infectious agents by utilizing pressurized
steam and superheated water. Autoclaves are also widely used to cure
composites and in the vulcanization of rubber. The high heat and pressure
that autoclave creates allow to ensure the best possible physical properties
of the material used for sterilization
auto
-, ultimately meaning self, and Latin
While using this instrument in the laboratory, care must be taken such that
the pressure and temperature do not cross beyond the capacity of the
instrument; otherwise, there is every possibility of meeting accidents.
Maintenance of appropriate time, temperature, and pressure is the key point
to be noted for highest effectivity
Stovetop autoclaves—the simplest of autoclaves
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