- In November 2024, Cosmed Group Inc., a sterilization company, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in Houston, Texas, following lawsuits alleging injuries, including cancer, caused by inhalation of ethylene oxide, a carcinogenic gas used in sterilization. The company faced at least 300 lawsuits, including two class actions, jeopardizing its continued operation
- In August 2024, Mudanjiang Plasma Physics Application Technology Co., Ltd. achieved CE certification for its hydrogen peroxide agent used in low-temperature plasma sterilizers. This certification marks a significant advancement in sterilization technology, offering an effective and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional method
- In April 2024, Ecolab announced the sale of its global surgical solutions unit to Medline for USD 950 million, aiming to enhance its focus on core healthcare services
- In March 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implemented new rules to reduce emissions of ethylene oxide (EtO) by 90%, addressing its carcinogenic risks associated with medical device sterilization
- In 2024, Sterile State LLC unveiled a breakthrough sterilization method utilizing nitric oxide, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional EtO sterilization
