In May, L&R announced that its trademark Barrier Milk product is available in a sprayable formula. This product comes in a small 8 oz bottle and is designed for laboratory instrument care. It helps prevent corrosion and rusting of metals during the autoclaving process. It also lubricates devices that contain hinges or joints. As a bonus, the solution reduces the chances of heat discoloration from the high temperatures experienced in a typical sterilization cycle. Because of this triple action, the spray can be used for many applications.
This solution is available for purchase by the gallon as well as in the new spray bottle size. Instruments can be dipped in the liquid barrier for 1 minute or simply misted generously. Either way, the product will work its way into the joints and crevices of each instrument to provide full protection. The formula is designed to be residue free, so tools will emerge from the autoclave ready for use.
Barrier Milk is not designed to actually clean lab instruments. Instead it is intended for application after each device has been disinfected and run through an ultra-sonic bath. After this, the instruments can be sprayed down prior to being loaded into the autoclave. The corrosion resistant barrier doesn’t interfere with the ability of the steam sterilizer to effectively kill any remaining pathogens.
MSDS Information
This product is 85-95% water and contains no phenols or nitrates. It has a neutral pH level. Besides water, it contains oleic acid (an emulsifier), amine alkylbenzene sulfonate (a surfactant), and a mixture of terpene hydrocarbons (lubricants). The corrosion inhibitor NJTSRN rounds out the formula.
Despite this scary sounding list of ingredients, the material safety data sheet for Barrier Milk is pretty tame. None of the substances in this product are known (or suspected) carcinogens. The product shouldn’t be allowed to splash or spray into a user’s eyes. Prolonged or repeated skin contact can cause irritation. Obviously, inhaling concentrated vapors or ingesting the product is inadvisable. However, with standard safety practices this liquid is much less dangerous than other products commonly used in sterilization processes.
Safety glasses and protective gloves are the only special gear needed to handle this material safely. The room should be adequately ventilated. Any container of Barrier Milk should be stored away from extreme heat. The product is biodegradable. Spills can be mopped up, diluted, and disposed of through the sewer system if this does not violate any existing ordinances.
Ultrasonic Cleaning
L&R manufactures and distributes the Quantrex and SweepZone ultrasonic cleaners. Either product can be used as a precursor to the application of Barrier Milk and subsequent autoclaving. The company boasts complete control over the quality of the machines produced at its facilities. In addition, they blend their own cleaning solutions and test each new formula thoroughly.
Paying attention to detail often makes the difference between success and failure. If you are planning to procure a sterilizer or autoclave for your facility, we can help you fully investigate your options so you don’t have to do all the research yourself. The information you need is gathered into one place in our free report.