The two main methods of disinfection are:
- Thermal Disinfection : This method uses heat to kill or reduce the number of harmful microorganisms. It involves moist heat (such as pasteurization) or dry heat to destroy pathogens on heat-resistant materials by denaturing their proteins.
- Chemical Disinfection : This method uses chemical agents such as chlorine, ozone, hydrogen peroxide, or other biocidal substances to inactivate or kill microorganisms on surfaces or objects.
Thermal disinfection relies on applying adequate heat to materials that can tolerate it, while chemical disinfection applies toxic chemicals to break down microorganisms, typically on surfaces or equipment that cannot withstand high heat. Both methods effectively reduce pathogens but are suited to different materials and scenarios.
