Gamma processing: the state of the art

Some materials undergo undesirable changes after sterilization by gamma irradiation, principally related to changes in colour and material properties. However, it is argued that there are ways to overcome these problems; solutions can involve using the most appropriate polymer or reducing the dose that is applied to the product. The new approach to dose setting has led to the view that providing certain conditions are met, a product treated with less than 25 kGy can be sterile without a sterilization test being necessary, which consequently, increases the advantages of this method.