The explants, nutrients media, glassware and equipment that are used during the tissue culture are to be surface sterilized. The main methods of sterilization are as follows:
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Chemicals: The chemicals are used for sterilizing the glassware, work table and explants. Some of the chemicals are chromic acid, mercuric chloride, sodium hypochlorite and calcium hypochlorite etc.
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Autoclaves: Autoclaving is done for sterilizing the water, nutrient medium etc. by steam.
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UV light: UV light is used in the incubation chamber to make the chamber aseptic or germ free.
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Ultra filtration: Filters are used for sterilizing the hormones, vitamins since they become unstable at high temperature.
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Ovens: The ovens are used for sterilizing the glassware or metallic instruments by hot air.
