Apparatus having sterilant monitoring system

Abstract

Sterilization apparatus includes a monitoring system capable of continuously monitoring levels of a sterilant, such as hydrogen peroxide vapor. The monitoring system includes a sensor chamber joined in fluid communication with a sterilant supply conduit of the sterilization apparatus. A gas-detecting semiconductor sensing element, and associated temperature sensor, are provided within the sensor chamber to provide output signals corresponding to detected levels of sterilant. The sensor chamber isolates parametric influence, such as relative humidity, temperature and flow rate, to provide more accurate concentration level readings. A data collection circuit is operatively coupled to the sensors to provide an output corresponding to detected levels of sterilant within the apparatus. The data collection circuit may include an electronic memory to store the collected data, and signal connectors, such as data ports for a physical connection or transmitters for a remote transmission, to transfer the signals representative of the collected data to a remote communication unit. A processor chip or circuit may be provided proximate the sensor chamber, and a processor may be provided in communication with the remote communication unit. The monitoring system can be controlled using a circuit to select conditions for operation, or by remote control using near infrared or radio wave signals.