Sterilization methods:
(i) Vitamins : Vitamins can be sterilize by the method of autoclaving. For this a concentrated stock solution is required to be prepared followed by fitration and subsequent addition in sterile medium at the temperature of growth (or room temperature).
(ii) Forceps & Scalpels : The metallic instruments like forceps, scalpels, needles, spatulas can be sterilized by flame sterilization method. For this we have to dip them in 25% ethanol ‘ followed by flaming and cooling. It is called incineration.
(iii) Nutrient media : Culture media are properly dispensed in glass container, plugged with cotton or sealed with plastic closures and sterilized by autoclaving (steam sterilization) at 15 psi for 30 minutes. Minimum temperature required for autoclaving of nutrient media is 15 minutes.
(iv) Explant: The explants are sterilized by disinfectants (e g., sodium, hypochlorite. NaOCl, mercuric chloride-HgCl2) and washed aseptically for 6-10 times with sterlized distilled water.
