autoclave

An autoclave is a device used to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure saturated steam at 121 °C for around 15–20 minutes depending on the size of the load and the contents.

It was invented by Charles Chamberland in 1879, although a precursor known as the steam digester was created by Denis Papin in 1679.

Autoclaves are widely used in microbiology, medicine, tattooing, body piercing, veterinary science, mycology, dentistry, chiropody and prosthetics fabrication. They vary in size and function depending on the media to be sterilized.

Typical loads include laboratory glassware, other equipment and waste, surgical instruments and medical waste.