What are Biocides?
A wide range of chemicals, which are primarily used to kill or control harmful organisms such as microbes, viruses and Mold by chemical or biological means, is described in the term biocide. Biocides, which are essential in the manufacture of disinfectants, preservatives and oxidising agents, provide for the maintenance and proper functioning of systems that would otherwise have been subjected to bacterial growth. The strong smell of chlorine used as a disinfectant in swimming pools, spas, and gyms is the most common example of a biocide we're used to every day.
Types of Biocides
There are many different types of biocides, which can be synthetic or natural, which are available in a variety of physical forms, ranging from solids and powders to liquids and Dispersions, which may be grouped according to their function or biological killing action:
- Algaecides prevent the growth of algae
- Bactericides are used for the purpose of killing and preventing bacterial growth.
- Fungicides are intended for the purpose of killing and preventing fungus growth.
- Microorganisms like viruses, bacteria, protozoa and other pathogens can be killed by germicides or antimicrobial agents.
- The use of herbicides or defoliant is intended for killing and preventing vegetation growth.
- Viricides are chemical agents that may kill, deactivate or destroy viruses.
Biocidal products
Biocidal products are used for the protection of humans and animals, for the preservation of goods, for the prevention of pests such as insects or rodents and for the control of viruses, bacteria and fungi by chemical or biological means. Disinfectants, wood preservatives and insect repellents are some of the examples.
A biocidal product is typically a mixture of chemicals, which includes an active substance. The active substance has a controlling effect on the harmful organism.
Biocidal products can also be:
100% active substance with no other components
articles that have been impregnated with the active substance, such as disinfecting wipes
bacteria, viruses or other micro-organisms
Main Uses of Biocides
The use of biocides in everyday products and applications, including in healthcare, as antiseptics, preservatives in medicines, skin disinfection, alcohol wipe and hand rub is also widespread.
Consumer products to prevent spoilage in detergents and fabric softeners, cosmetics, disinfectants, wipes furniture, curtains and wallpapers, pet disinfectants, general disinfectants, and even building materials.
Food to prolong the shelf life and avoid spoilage, food production, disinfection of manufacturing facilities and containers, control of bacterial growth in foodstuffs and beverages as well as decontaminate processing devices.
Agriculture for the cleaning and disinfection of farm buildings, in particular among batches of animals as well as foot droppings outside animal holding. Animal transport vehicles and materials are also to be cleaned and disinfected. Biocides shall also be applied in soil decontamination.
Water Treatment to protect against biological infestation and growth in cooling towers and treatment plants.
Feed Preservatives to protect feed against deterioration caused by microorganisms.
Forestry because timber is vulnerable to attack by different wood-eating organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and insects.
Biocides for Water Treatment and Industrial Applications
Serious health and environmental threats, as well as the safety and effectiveness of processes can be caused by water impurities such as algae, fungus, bacteria or other microbes. In order to provide an appropriate and optimised use of water, the processes in place today include water purification, conservation and sewage treatment. These processes, when used in this sector and recycling these scarce resources within the circular economy, also play a critical role in reducing resource consumption and costs. In order to prevent biological invasion and growth, biocides are mixed into the water for treatment purposes. For each application, different types of biocides are used. Bromine and chlorine are the major biocides applied for water treatment.
Conclusion:
To control harmful organisms such as microbes, viruses and mold, biocides are essential components of disinfectants, preservatives and other products that are applied in different sectors. Their use plays a critical role in protecting public health, safety and the environment across sectors such as healthcare, consumer products, agriculture, water treatment or more. As industries advance, optimizing biocide usage not only ensures resource conservation but also enhances cost-effectiveness, highlighting their indispensable nature in contemporary society.