Hydrogen peroxide indicator and method

Abstract

The present invention provides a hydrogen peroxide indicator that includes a substrate on which is disposed an indicator composition that includes at least one of a select group of colorants. As a result of contact with hydrogen peroxide, the colorants change color, and even become colorless, thereby providing an indication of the presence of hydrogen peroxide.

1 . A hydrogen peroxide sterilization indicator comprising a substrate and an indicator composition disposed thereon, wherein the indicator composition comprises:
 at least one first colorant that becomes substantially colorless or changes to a different color upon exposure to hydrogen peroxide; and   at least one second colorant that does not change color upon exposure to hydrogen peroxide;   wherein exposure to hydrogen peroxide comprises exposing the indicator to an atmosphere containing about 6 mg/L to about 7 mg/L hydrogen peroxide in an empty chamber at a pressure of about 8×10 2  Pa to about 13.3×10 2  Pa and a temperature of about 45° C. to about 50° C. for a period of at least about 50 minutes.   
     
     
         2 . The hydrogen peroxide sterilization indicator of  claim 1 , wherein the indicator composition does not significantly fade upon exposure to room lighting. 
     
     
         3 . The hydrogen peroxide sterilization indicator of  claim 2 , wherein the indicator composition does not significantly fade upon exposure to room lighting for two months. 
     
     
         4 . The hydrogen peroxide sterilization indicator of  claim 1 , wherein the indicator composition does not significantly fade upon exposure to sunlight through a window for one week.