[Sterilization by ionizing radiations (author's transl)].

The first part summarizes the general characteristics of ionizing radiations and their activity on microorganisms: lethal and mutagenic effects, sensitivity conditions. Different microbial species have different sensitivities: gram negative bacteria are more sensitive (D10 approximately 5-10 Krads), bacterial spores and viruses are more resistant (D10 approximately 1 Megarads). The second part considers the main applications of radiosterilization: some are at present in full development (medical and surgical disposable equipment); others are still at the experimental stage. Practical aspects, determination of sterilizing doses and control of radiosterilization are also described.