NEW TEMPERATURE INDICATOR LABEL SYSTEM LAUNCHED

A new multi-purpose label that can both carry printed data and indicate when the required autoclave/sterlisation temperature is reached is available from Positive ID labelling.

The label is printed with a special ink strip that remains invisible until it changes to black when at the specified temperature – in this case 120°C. The change is permanent and irreversible. The rest of the label can be used to show essential information such as batch number, date and other variable data, which is printed and applied with a simple two-line hand-held labeller.

This saves the time-consuming practice of double labelling – once with printed information, then with a special tape to check the temperature. It also saves the extra cost of the tape and reduces the material used, while still guaranteeing a check that the sterilisation process was successful.

The special ink has been developed in the US, where it is already widely used in laboratories and the hospitals. Other inks in the range can be used for different sterilization techniques such as ethylene oxide gas, hydrogen peroxide (plasma), formaldegyde gas, radiation and dry heat.