Assessing the Usability of Expired Hydrogen Peroxide for Cold Sterilization: A Simple Analytical Titrimetric Method and Data Analysis for Ensuring Safety and Efficiency in Medical Device Sterilization

Abstract

Objective: Hydrogen peroxide is widely used in medical and pharmaceutical applications, but its stability and degradation after expiration are major concerns. The objective of this study is to investigate the stability of hydrogen peroxide in expired capsules and assess its degradation over time, in order to determine its efficacy beyond the expiration date. Methods: A series of experiments were conducted to measure the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in capsules at different time intervals post-expiration (0, 3, 6, and 12 months). The concentration was determined using a permanganometric titration method, and the degradation patterns were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, repeated measures ANOVA, Tukey HSD test, and linear regression analysis to assess the effect of time on hydrogen peroxide concentration. Results: The stability of hydrogen peroxide in the capsules was observed to be high for the first 6 months post-expiration. The mean concentration decreased slightly over time, with the largest decline observed at 12 months. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between the capsules for up to 6 months, indicating minimal degradation during this period. The linear regression model confirmed a gradual decrease in concentration over time, with a reduction of 0.0193 units per month. Conclusion: Hydrogen peroxide capsules remain effective for at least 6 months after expiration when stored under optimal conditions. The findings suggest that the degradation of hydrogen peroxide is slow and minimal during this period, supporting the potential for using expired hydrogen peroxide capsules within this timeframe, especially in resource-limited settings.