Chlorine Dioxide Sterilization of Bulk Aseptic Storage Tanks

Abstract

Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) is an antimicrobial pesticide recognized for its disinfectant properties since the early 1900’s. Antimicrobial pesticides are substances used to control harmful microorganisms including bacteria, viruses or fungi on inanimate objects and surfaces. In 1967, EPA first registered the liquid form of chlorine dioxide for use as a disinfectant and sanitizer. In 1988, EPA registered chlorine dioxide gas as a sterilant. Enerfab and Purdue University began studying the efficacy of using chlorine dioxide gas to sterilize the surfaces of produce in 1996. During this process, Enerfab and Purdue determined that chlorine dioxide gas could potentially be used as an alternative to the traditional method of flood sterilizing bulk aseptic storage tanks with iodophor. This paper outlines the research that has been performed to develop chlorine dioxide gas sterilization of bulk storage tanks with chlorine dioxide, the efficacy of this method of sterilization, the benefits of its use, and the current status. Paper published with permission.