title: Analysis of factors influencing the Bowie-Dick-type test.
abstract: Investigations were conducted to determine the air-detecting capacity of the Bowie-Dick-type test for prevacuum steam autoclaves. The results indicate that the limitations in air detection are related to the specific type of sterilizer and test procedure being used, rather than some theoretical consideration. The chemical indicators on the test sheet appear to respond to incomplete steam penetration, rather than to the presence of air. The so-called small-load effect should be attributed to other than the commonly accepted causes. It appears that the causes of the small load effect are (a) air trapped by a condensate layer, and (b) the reluctance of steam a and air to mix.
mesh_terms: D001512:Bedding and Linens / Q000592:standards; D003257:Consumer Product Safety; D006813:Humidity; D007202:Indicators and Reagents; D011786:Quality Control; D013227:Steam; D013242:Sterilization / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D013997:Time Factors; D014618:Vacuum
chemical_list: D007202:Indicators and Reagents; D013227:Steam