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Gas germicides, whose main component is hydrogen peroxide, intended for killing and/or total inactivation (i.e., sterilization) of microorganisms (i.e., viruses, bacteria, fungi, and their spores). These gas germicides typically consist of hydrogen peroxide gas used in sterilizing units that include a closed chamber in which the time, temperature, and/or concentration of the germicideal during the sterilization process are controlled. The germicide is toxic and must be eliminated after the sterilization cycle is complete. Hydrogen peroxide gas germicides are mainly used to sterilize surgical instruments, reusable supplies, and pharmaceutical products that cannot support conventional high temperature sterilization (e.g., devices that contain plastic or rubber components). The germicide is usually available as a liquid and vaporized by the sterilizer.
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