Sterilization of Headstages

Tech Note: TN2503
Product: Zif Headstages, Chronic Headstages, Acute Headstages
Version: All
Date Added: 2025-07-17

Issue

This tech note compares common sterilization techniques and their suitability for TDT headstages.

Solution

The table below outlines the compatibility of TDT equipment with different sterilization methods.

Chlorine dioxide is generally the most compatible with electronics and the best choice.

If you use vaporized hydrogen peroxide (VHP) sterilization for active electronics, select the option without plasma. Hydrogen peroxide plasma sterilization may damage the chips on the active headstages with its high RF frequency. It is only suitable for passive headstages.

Sterilization Method	Problematic Parameters	Compatibility
Autoclave steam	High temperature, humidity	Can affect floating-gate memory cells (EEPROM); reduces the lifetime of embedded batteries (if any).
Ethylene oxide	Flammability, carcinogen	The vacuum can affect embedded batteries.
Chlorine dioxide	None	There are no adverse effects on electronics or batteries.
Vaporized hydrogen peroxide	Vacuum	The vacuum can affect embedded batteries.
Hydrogen peroxide plasma	Vacuum, plasma discharge	The vacuum can affect embedded batteries; the RF energy required to generate the plasma may not be compatible to semiconductors.
Gamma ray	Radiation, nuclear waste	The radiation can damage semiconductors that are not designed for exposure.
Electron beam	Radiation	The radiation can damage semiconductors that are not designed for exposure.

Source: Medical Device Sterilization Methods and Information