Is Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VH2O2) the Right Sterilization Method for Your Medical Device? 

By Jeffrey Chuang, Principal Microbiologist, LSO

When selecting a sterilization method for your medical device, material compatibility is a critical factor. Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VH2O2, VHP) is a widely used low-temperature sterilization method known for its efficiency in eliminating microorganisms while being safer for the environment compared to ethylene oxide (EtO, EO). However, VH2O2 is not suitable for all materials. Using the wrong sterilization method can compromise product integrity, performance, and patient safety. 

In this guide, we explore VH2O2 material compatibility and provide a diagnostic tool to help you determine if VH2O2 is the right choice, or if an alternative sterilization method—such as gamma, electron beam (e-beam), EtO, or steam—is more appropriate. 

Understanding VH2O2 Material Compatibility 

VH2O2 sterilization is highly effective for heat- and moisture-sensitive materials. However, it is not suitable for all device components. Common concerns include: 

• Material Degradation: Certain plastics and elastomers may weaken, become brittle, or discolor. Non-surgical grade metals can oxidize or rust. 

• Surface Reactions: Some materials may absorb or react with hydrogen peroxide, leading to unwanted changes. 

• Residual Presence: The potential for retained VH2O2 in porous materials can be problematic. 

Materials that are generally compatible with VH2O2 sterilization:
✅ Polypropylene (PP), ✅ Polyethylene (PE), ✅ Polycarbonate (PC) (with some limitations), ✅ Stainless steel, ✅ Titanium, ✅ Most glass materials 

Materials that are not recommended for VH2O2 sterilization:
❌ Nylon (absorbs hydrogen peroxide, leading to material degradation), ❌ Certain adhesives and coatings (may weaken or delaminate), ❌ Natural rubber and some silicone elastomers (can be degraded by VH2O2 exposure), ❌ Cellulose-based materials (incompatible due to peroxide reactivity), ❌ Acetal (Delrin®) (severe effects).

Diagnostic Tool: Is VH2O2 the Right Sterilization Method for Your Device?

Answer the following questions to determine whether VH2O2 is the best sterilization choice, or if an alternative method would be more suitable. 

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Is your device composed of heat-sensitive or moisture-sensitive materials?

• Yes
• No

VH2O2 is a viable option. Proceed to the next question.

Steam sterilization may be a more effective choice.

Does your device contain acetal (Delrin®), nylon, cellulose, or natural rubber?

• Yes
• No

VH2O2 is NOT recommended. Consider EtO, gamma, or e-beam sterilization.

Proceed to the next question.

Does your device use adhesives or coatings?

• Yes
• No

Check compatibility. Some coatings and adhesives degrade with VH2O2.

Proceed to the next question.

Is surface-level sterilization acceptable?

• Yes
• No

Proceed to the next question.

VH2O2 and EtO may not penetrate effectively. Consider gamma or e-beam sterilization.

Does your device contain small, complex lumens or porous materials?

• Yes
• No

VH2O2 may not penetrate effectively. Consider EtO, gamma, e-beam, or steam sterilization.

Proceed to the next question.

Is it difficult to aerate residual sterilant from your device?

• Yes
• No

VH2O2 is a low-residue option, but EtO may be a better alternative if sterility assurance is required for porous materials.

Proceed to the next question.

Is the load size larger than a pallet?

• Yes
• No

EtO, gamma, or e-beam might be preferable for high-throughput needs.

Proceed to the final question.

Is two-day sterilization turnaround a priority?

• Yes
• No

VH2O2 is a fast, efficient process with minimal aeration requirements.

EtO might be preferable. Depending on product requirements, typical turnaround with lot release is 2 to 9 business days.

Interested in speaking with one of our sterilization experts? Please provide your contact information below and we will reach out to you.

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When to Consider Other Sterilization Methods 

If your responses indicate VH2O2 is not the best fit, consider the following alternatives: 

• In-House Ethylene Oxide (EtO): Best for electronics, devices with complex lumens, heat-sensitive components, and porous materials. LSO provides in-house EtO sterilization with full validation and regulatory support. For highly successful products, LSO partners with vendors to quickly scale up production. 

• In-House Steam Sterilization: The preferred method for high-heat-resistant medical devices and instruments. LSO offers in-house steam sterilization, ensuring efficient processing for autoclave-compatible materials. LSO offers the largest contracted autoclave on the West Coast, with 74 cu ft capacity. Smaller chambers are also available. 

• Managed Gamma Sterilization: Ideal for bulk sterilization of compatible polymers and pre-packaged items. LSO can facilitate gamma sterilization as a managed service. 

• Managed Electron Beam (E-Beam): Fast sterilization for radiation-compatible materials with minimal processing time. LSO provides e-beam sterilization through trusted partners. 

LSO Sterilization Services

At Life Science Outsourcing (LSO), we offer comprehensive in-house EtO and steam sterilization services, along with managed access to gamma and e-beam sterilization to meet your specific requirements. Our sterilization experts can help you select the best method based on material compatibility, regulatory requirements, and performance considerations. 

Need Help Choosing the Right Sterilization Method? Speak with one of our sterilization experts today or read a summary of different sterilization methods here.