Biocides Update

Biocides are protective substances used to inhibit the growth of bacteria and other pernicious organisms, including fungi.

Biocides are chemicals mainly intended to control the harmful effects of microbial activities. The effectiveness of biocides depends on the concentration and the duration of the exposure. They find applicability in many end-use industries such as water treatments, agriculture, medicals and others. Biocides include disinfectants, pest control, preservatives among others.

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How do biocides act?

There are many biocidal substances in the market that act in different ways and sometimes several biocides are combined in a product to increase the overall effectiveness. Ideally, the combined action of all the biocides in a product should be greater than the sum of the individual actions (synergy). Biocidal products contain many different molecules and they can all affect how well the product works.

Moreover, some of the components that are added to many household products for a variety of purposes – such as surfactants or membrane permeabilisers - may increase the efficacy of biocides in killing bacteria.

Leading Companies in the Biocides Industry:

• AkzoNobel NV
• BASF SE
• Clariant AG
• Kemira Oyj
• LANXESS
• Lonza
• Solvay
• The Dow Chemical Company
• Thor Specialties Srl
• Troy Corporation

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