Core Modules
37
Decontamination Plastic Cage Lid
Material
Autoclave
Gas Sterilization
Ethylene Oxide (ETO)
H2O2 Gas Plasma
Sterilization
Disinfectants
Polycarbonate (e.g.
Makrolon®)
Autoclave temperature:
<=121°C (<=249.8°F)
Sterilization temperatures
>125°C (>257°F) during
autoclaving can deform
Makrolon® shaped parts.
Generally, Makrolon®
shaped parts can be
sterilized several times
before the mechanical
stability will be reduced -
due to the increasing
chemical degradation - to a
level isn´t
sufficient for miscellaneous
applications.
Applicable sterilization
procedures use undiluted
ETO as well as mixings
including carbon dioxide or
inert gas - 10…20% ETO /
90…80% other gas.
Sterilization temperature
<=65°C (<=149°F).
With increasing number of
sterilization procedures, a
slight embrittlement
associated with fissuring
may occur.
Applicable
2% Peracetic acid
applicable for Makrolon®
shaped parts.
Polycarbonate, glued
Not specified.
Depends on (1) glue and
(2) gluing procedure.
Not specified.
Depends on (1) glue and
(2) gluing procedure.
Not specified.
Depends on (1) glue and
(2) gluing procedure.
Not specified.
Depends on (1) glue and
(2) gluing procedure.
H-Temp Polysulfone (PSU) <=134°C (<=273.2°F)
Not specified
Not specified
Not specified
10.2.1.2. Metallic Cage Lid
Metallic cage lids should be wiped off, if required, with a moistened soft, lint-free cloth or tissue to
remove any adhering dirt. A stainless steel cleaning agent can also be used to remove any stubborn
dirt. Detergent residues should then be wiped off.
The metallic cage lids of the home cages - without sensors and dispensers - must be decontaminated
with a method approved for use on the cage lid material (hints, see table below).
Decontamination Metallic Cage Lid
Material
Autoclave
Gas Sterilization
Ethylene Oxide (ETO)
H2O2 Gas Plasma
Sterilization
Disinfectants
Stainless steel
Autoclave temperature:
<=121°C (<=249.8°F)
Applicable
Applicable
(1) 70% Ethanol or
(2) Ethanol/Isopropanol
70/30 applicable
10.2.1.3. Cage Body (Home Cage)
The lower part of the animal cages can be preliminarily cleaned in a dishwasher using a detergent
that is approved for use with plastics.
Removal of residues
In order to ensure efficient sterilization and to avoid cage damage, no residues from the cleaning
process must remain on the cages.
NOTICE
- Instrument damage!
If alkaline detergent residues or dried residues of softened water remain adhering to
polycarbonate cages, material degradation could occur.
•
Thoroughly rinse the cages to remove any detergent residues.
•
Remove auxiliary detergents completely.
