Most cleaning processes involve a fluid. The purpose of the fluid is to get the cleaning agent to the areas of surfaces that are contaminated and then carry the contamination or soil away from the surface.

In the previous column, we began our answer to the question posed by Controlled Environments readers, “How do we address chemicals and processes that have become obsolete due to regulatory restrictions?” This month we explore the scope of restrictions, including what is meant, or not meant, by the term “banned.”

What do we do to address chemicals and processes that have become obsolete due to regulatory restrictions? This intriguing question, posed by Controlled Environments readers in a recent survey, has a multilayered answer.

During the November, 2011 ASTM meetings in Tampa, FL, we observed a number of trends, particularly in the standards and guidance documents that impact medical device manufacture and maintenance.

Barbara Kanegsberg with special guest columnist Dr. Kevina O’Donoghue Reviewed by Ed Kanegsberg

In the first installment, we discussed how to avoid superfluous materials and activities in cleanrooms.

An art exhibit in London inspired us to ponder changing views about the definitions and implications of soil, residue, contamination, and especially the design and operation of controlled environments.

The suggestion is often heard in troubleshooting or, proactively, in validating critical cleaning processes.

The world has a love/hate relationship with ozone. Ozone (O3) is a “super” oxidizer, almost as reactive as fluorine. This reactivity makes ozone either desirable or undesirable, depending on the situation.

Plasma, the fourth state of matter, is a powerful tool for critical cleaning, controlling contamination, and achieving the appropriate surface quality.