Autoclave facts for kids

An autoclave is a device that uses pressure to heat aqueous solutions above their boiling point. It is done to kill microbiological organisms, called sterilization. The autoclave was invented by Charles Chamberland in 1879.

Images for kids

Cutaway illustration of a cylindrical-chamber autoclave
Dental equipment in an autoclave to be sterilized for 2 hours at 150 to 180 degrees Celsius
Sterilization bags often have a "sterilization indicator mark" that typically darkens when the bag and its contents have been adequately processed. Comparing the marks on an unprocessed bag (L) and on a bag that has been properly cycled (R) will reveal an obvious visual difference.
Stovetop autoclaves, also known as pressure cooker—the simplest of autoclaves
The machine on the right is an autoclave used for processing substantial quantities of laboratory equipment prior to reuse, and infectious material prior to disposal. (The machines on the left and in the middle are washing machines.)
Horizontal high-capacity autoclave with cylindrical chamber
Illustration of a cylindrical-chamber pass-through autoclave