The autoclave band is the adhesive tape used in an autoclave (heating under high pressure with steam to sterilize) to show whether a certain temperature has been achieved. The autoclave band works by changing the color after exposure to the temperature normally used in the sterilization process, typically 121 Â ° C in a steam autoclave.
Small pieces of ribbon applied to the item before being placed into the autoclave. The tape is similar to tape but slightly more adhesive, to allow it to adhere under the humid and hot conditions of the autoclave. One of these bands has a diagonal mark that contains ink that changes color (usually beige to black) after heating.
It is important to note that the presence of an autoclave band that has been discolored on an item does not ensure that the product is sterile, since the tape will change color only when exposure. In order for steam sterilization to occur, all goods must thoroughly achieve and maintain 121 ° C for 15-20 minutes with proper steam exposure to ensure sterilization.
The color change indicator of the tape is usually carbonate-based, which decomposes to lead (II) oxide. To protect users from lead - and because this decomposition can occur at many temperatures - manufacturing can protect the lead carbonate layer with a resin or polymer degraded under steam at high temperatures.
Video Autoclave tape
Footnotes and references
Source of the article : Wikipedia
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