In bioreactors, obviously a significant location that presents a problem with the ingress of bacteria/contamination into the culture vessel is the areas around the seal/gaskets. I am wondering which one one these is the reason for this:
1. The seals/gaskets are inherently as sterile as any other part of the reactor, however, since the reactor is opened and closed at the location of the seals/gaskets, bacteria and contaminants enter at these loacations.
OR
2. Regardless of whether the reactor is opened at the site of the seals/gaskets, these will always be locations through which contamination can enter the reactor. The reason for this is that the seals provide micro-passageways into the reactor.
This is important because I am considering a reactor design that will have an submerged access panel on the side, that will be fully exposed to circulating media on the inside. I'm wondering if this is a bad idea.
Thank you.
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