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Ethylene Oxide - Critical Building Block for the Sterilization of Medical Equipment 

An important use of ethylene oxide is the sterilization of medical equipment, including personal protective equipment used by healthcare professionals and hospitals. It is estimated that ethylene oxide sterilizes 20 billion medical devices each year, helping to prevent disease and infection. Ethylene oxide is particularly important for medical equipment and articles that cannot be exposed to high heat or steam. Medical devices that use ethylene oxide sterilization include heart valves, pacemakers, surgical kits, gowns, drapes, ventilators, syringes, catheters, ophthalmologic instruments, ampoules for spinal anesthesia, and equipment for intravenous infusions. 

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American Chemistry Council

The American Chemistry Council’s mission is to advocate for the people, policy, and products of chemistry that make the United States the global leader in innovation and manufacturing. To achieve this, we: Champion science-based policy solutions across all levels of government; Drive continuous performance improvement to protect employees and communities through Responsible Care®; Foster the development of sustainability practices throughout ACC member companies; and Communicate authentically with communities about challenges and solutions for a safer, healthier and more sustainable way of life. Our vision is a world made better by chemistry, where people live happier, healthier, and more prosperous lives, safely and sustainably—for generations to come.