How can prions be killed?

Prions have a strong resistance to formalin, heat, ionizing radiation, UV light, and disinfectants.

In an autoclave, prions can be deactivated by applying a temperature of 270 F at 21 psi for 90 minutes. If the infectious material is in a solution of sodium hydroxide, deactivation will take place after one hour at 250 F and 21 psi. Prions can be destroyed through incineration as long as the incinerator can maintain a temperature of 900 F for four hours.

Prions are highly resistant to traditional methods of killing pathogens such as heat, radiation, and chemical disinfectants. However, they can be destroyed through specific procedures such as incineration at very high temperatures or treatment with strong alkalis or concentrated bleach solutions. Autoclaving at high pressure and temperature can also be effective in eliminating prions.