Radiation sterilization is a method used to eliminate all forms of microbial life, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, from various materials. This process typically involves exposing items to high-energy radiation, such as gamma rays or electron beams, which disrupt the DNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing infection. This technique is commonly used in the medical field to sterilize surgical instruments, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. It is effective, efficient, and can be applied to heat-sensitive materials that cannot withstand traditional sterilization methods, such as steam sterilization or chemical sterilization.