ASP STERRAD 100, Service Manual, Page: 20 / 309

Electrical energy at high frequency is used to break down hydrogen
peroxide (H
2
O
2
) molecules into an unstable ionized state called a low
temperature plasma. The combination of hydrogen peroxide vapor and
plasma safely and rapidly sterilizes most medical instruments and
materials without toxic residues. At the end of the process, the active
species in the plasma lose their high energy and recombine to form
stable compounds such as oxygen, water, and other non-toxic
by-products.
At the end of the cycle, or following a problem with the cycle at any
stage, the system presents an appropriate message on the front panel
display and prints a status report. If the cycle was interrupted by an
apparent malfunction, the printout indicates the reason for the
interruption and suggests appropriate corrective action.
Figure 2-1. The Sterilization Cycle
System Operation Theory of Operation-Overview
2-4 STERRAD® 100 Sterilizer ASP Service Guide rev. D