History of Cobalt-60
The production of Cobalt-60 in nuclear reactors dates to the 1950s. Originally, the technology was used in teletherapy machines for the treatment of cancer, an application that still exists today.
Cobalt-60’s prevalence as a source of energy for the terminal sterilization of single-use medical devices grew in the 1960s, and today, Gamma is one of the two primary modalities used globally.
Gamma sterilization using Cobalt-60 has a long history of efficacy built around a robust network of providers and facilities, flexible supply chains, and well-developed science, technology and standards.
Decades of Innovation
The science of sterilization using gamma radiation has been thoroughly studied and the effects on both the reduction of microorganisms and changes to material properties are well understood. Standards for sterilization are endorsed and accepted by regulatory bodies around the world, and providers of gamma sterilization and related services have a large body of knowledge from which to draw in order to validate this modality of sterilization for new products. As a result of decades of innovation, the global infrastructure that supports gamma sterilization has achieved a level of both technical and market efficiency that is difficult to match.
1950s
Cancer treatment teletherapy machines
1960s
Prevalent source of energy for the terminal sterilization of single-use medical devices
Today
Gamma is 1 of the 2 primary modalities used globally
“Nordion has a long history and an unparalleled set of capabilities that are focused on sterilization and nuclear medicine. We have a duty to continue to evolve our capabilities to remain a global leader in these fields. Nordion's unique experience set and world-class infrastructure give it a tremendous ecosystem to continue to build upon its leadership position.”
