Final answer:
Sterilization standards can be met using a liquid sterilant and/or moist heat, which includes methods such as steam under pressure in an autoclave. Dry-heat sterilization often involves prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Other sterilization methods include the use of ethylene oxide gas for cold sterilization and ionizing radiation for penetrating sterilization.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sterilization standards involve the use of various methods to achieve the complete removal or killing of all vegetative cells, endospores, and viruses. Among these, the use of a liquid sterilant and/or moist heat is quite common. Moist-heat sterilization is effective because it penetrates cells better than dry heat, making it suitable for most laboratory and clinical applications. It often involves the use of steam under pressure, as seen in autoclaving, which can effectively kill all forms of microbial life including spores.
In contrast, dry-heat sterilization methods typically involve the direct application of high heat, such as incineration or prolonged exposure to high temperatures in a dry-heat oven. While effective, dry-heat sterilization generally requires significantly longer exposure times compared to moist-heat methods to achieve the same level of sterility.
Other sterilization methods include the use of ethylene oxide gas, which is a highly penetrating agent used for cold sterilization; ideal for heat-sensitive items within medical settings. Ionizing radiation, such as gamma irradiation, effectively sterilizes heat-sensitive and packaged materials as it can penetrate surfaces. Nonionizing radiation, like ultraviolet light, is unable to penetrate but is used for surface sterilization.