Glutaraldehyde is a potent disinfectant and sterilizing agent commonly used in various medical and laboratory settings.
Review of Processes:
(A) Pasteurization: Typically involves the use of heat to kill pathogens in food and beverages, not involving chemical agents like glutaraldehyde.
(B) Incineration: Refers to the combustion process used to destroy medical waste and other materials at high temperatures. It does not involve chemical sterilants.
(C) Cold sterilization: Correct. Cold sterilization is a term used to describe the sterilization method using chemicals at lower temperatures where heat-sensitive materials are involved. Glutaraldehyde is extensively used in this process for the sterilization of equipment and instruments that cannot withstand high temperatures.
(D) Autoclaving: Involves the use of steam under pressure to achieve sterilization. It is a heat-based method, not chemical, and does not use glutaraldehyde.
Conclusion:
Explanation:
Glutaraldehyde is ideal for cold sterilization due to its effectiveness in killing spores and viruses without the need for high temperatures, which might damage delicate medical and laboratory instruments.