Final answer:
All of the substances listed (Ethylene oxide, Betapropiolactone, and vaporized H₂O₂) are used as sterilants, with Ethylene oxide being a highly penetrating gas sterilant, and vaporized hydrogen peroxide known for broad-spectrum efficacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The substances used as sterilants are Ethylene oxide, Betapropiolactone, and vaporized H₂O₂. Ethylene oxide is a gas sterilant that is highly penetrating and can sterilize heat-sensitive materials. It reacts quickly with amino and sulfhydryl groups causing microorganism death. However, it is carcinogenic and explosive and must be handled carefully. Vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) is another sterilant which has a broad-spectrum efficacy against various pathogens. It is particularly effective against bacteria, yeasts, and bacterial spores but requires higher concentrations for sporicidal activity. Betapropiolactone has also been used for sterilization. However, it is less common and considered hazardous to some extent. All three mentioned chemicals are suitable for the purpose of sterilization.