steril

Steril is a term used in several languages to denote the state of being free from viable microorganisms. In English the common form is sterile, and the related noun is sterilization. The word derives from Latin sterilis, via French and other languages, and appears in various spellings such as steril, sterilité, or estéril depending on the language.

In medical, laboratory, and manufacturing contexts, sterility refers to an environment, instrument, or product that cannot support growth of living microorganisms. Sterile items are essential for invasive procedures, aseptic handling, and the production of pharmaceutical and surgical supplies. Distinctions are made between sterile, which means no viable microorganisms are present, and disinfected or sanitized, where microbial load is reduced but not eliminated.

Sterility is achieved through several methods. Physical methods include moist heat in an autoclave (steam under pressure) and dry heat. Filtration removes microorganisms from liquids or air without high temperature. Chemical sterilants, such as glutaraldehyde or hydrogen peroxide, are used for heat-sensitive equipment. Radiation methods (gamma rays or electron beams) and gaseous sterilants (ethylene oxide, vaporized hydrogen peroxide) are employed for complex devices and packaging.

Maintaining sterility requires validated processes, proper packaging, and controlled environments to prevent recontamination. In healthcare and lab settings, sterile technique and asepsis aim to preserve a sterile field during procedures. While sterility denotes an absence of viable microorganisms, products and environments are regularly re-evaluated to ensure ongoing protection against contamination. See also sterilization, asepsis, and sterility concepts in various languages.