ethylene oxide

American  

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless, odorless, gaseous, toxic, ring compound, C 2 H 4 O, usually obtained by the oxidation of ethylene: used chiefly in the synthesis of ethylene glycol.

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Etymology

Origin of ethylene oxide

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

“EPA’s 2024 rule was an important and overdue step to reduce toxic ethylene oxide pollution and protect communities,” said Irena Como, senior attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center, in a statement Friday.

From Los Angeles Times

An estimated 50% of sterile medical devices in the U.S. are treated with ethylene oxide, or EtO, particularly those that can’t be cleaned using steam or radiation.

From Los Angeles Times

The action around ethylene oxide would affect about 90 commercial sterilization facilities owned and operated by approximately 50 companies.

From Los Angeles Times

Three sterilization facilities in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties have been granted EPA exemptions to emit cancer-linked ethylene oxide.

From Los Angeles Times

Higher autism severity scores and weaker daily living skills were also linked with ethylene oxide.

From Salon