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BT 20

BT 20 is a self-contained biological indicator (SCBI) designed for monitoring steam sterilization processes. It contains Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores, which are highly resistant to moist heat. It provides reliable verification of sterilizer performance in both vacuum-assisted and gravity-displacement steam cycles.

INSTRUTIONS OF USE

  1. Label the indicator with sterilizer and load information.
  2. Place the BT 20 inside the most challenging area of the load for sterilant penetration.
  3. Run the sterilization cycle at the appropriate temperature (121–135 °C).
  4. After the cycle, allow the indicator to cool for 5 minutes before removing it.
  5. Check the chemical indicator on the label — a color change confirms exposure to steam.
  6. Activate the indicator by crushing the internal glass ampoule to mix the medium with the spore carrier.
  7. Incubate at 55–62 °C (usually 60 °C) for up to 24 hours.
  8. Interpret results:
    • No color change (purple) = Sterilization successful.
    • Color change (yellow) = Sterilization failure.

Record the results and investigate any failures.

AREAS OF APPLICATION

  • Hospitals and central sterilization departments
  • Dental and medical clinics
  • Laboratories and healthcare facilities
  • Steam sterilizer performance verification

FEATURES & BENEFTS

  • Self-contained system: spore carrier and medium in one vial.
  • Suitable for steam sterilizers operating between 121–135 °C.
  • 24-hour readout for rapid results.
  • Reliable detection of sterilization failures.
  • Complies with ISO 11138-1 and ISO 11138-3 standards.
  • Ensures compliance with hospital infection control protocols.

COMPOSITION

  • Carrier with spores of Geobacillus stearothermophilus (10⁵–10⁶ CFU per unit).
  • Glass ampoule containing growth medium with color indicator (purple to yellow).
  • Polypropylene vial with a ventilated cap and filter.

Chemical indicator on the label (changes from pink to brown when exposed to steam).

PRECAUTIONS OF USE

  • Use only for steam sterilization; not suitable for dry heat, ETO, plasma, or radiation sterilization.
  • Store between 10–30 °C in a dry area, away from sterilizing agents.
  • Handle with gloves and eye protection when crushing the ampoule.
  • The chemical indicator only confirms exposure, not sterilization — incubation is essential.
  • Always use a positive control (non-sterilized indicator) to verify test validity.
  • Dispose of used indicators as medical waste.

PACKING TYPES

  • Box of 100 self-contained biological indicators (vials).
  • Each vial individually labeled and ready for use.

PRODUCT CODE

  • BT20 – Biological Indicator for Steam Sterilization (24 h result)