Autoclave is used for:
Autoclave sterilizes materials by exposure to saturated steam under pressure, combining moisture and high temperature to achieve killing of vegetative bacteria, endospores, fungi, and viruses. Standard cycle achieves 121°C at 15 psi for 15-20 minutes, although longer cycles used for dense loads. Moist heat denatures proteins by coagulation, melts membranes, and hydrolyzes peptide bonds more efficiently than dry heat which requires 160-180°C for hours. Latent heat released upon steam condensation transfers energy into load interior. In cell culture laboratory, autoclave used for glass pipettes,
Ref: Campbell Biology 12th Ed Chapter Sterilization; NIH BMBL Sterilization using steam autoclave 121°C moist heat denaturation method.
