What is a common sterilization process that utilizes chemical agents?

Ethylene Oxide (EO) sterilization is a widely recognized method that employs chemical agents to achieve sterilization. This process is especially useful for heat-sensitive medical devices and items that cannot withstand high temperatures or moisture. EO is a potent gas that effectively penetrates packaging materials and can destroy a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores.

One of the main advantages of EO sterilization is its ability to sterilize complex and delicate instruments, making it an essential method in settings that require a reliable means of sterilization without compromising the integrity of the items being treated. The temperature and humidity conditions, along with the duration of exposure, are critical factors in ensuring the effectiveness of the EO process.

In contrast, other methods mentioned in the question do not utilize chemical agents in the same way. Radiation sterilization employs ionizing radiation to eliminate pathogens, while steam sterilization relies on high-pressure saturated steam. Aseptic processing, on the other hand, is a technique designed to keep environments and products free from contamination, though it does not represent a sterilization process in itself. These distinctions highlight the unique role that Ethylene Oxide sterilization plays within the field of sterilization methods.