Typical ingredients in disinfectants
Alcohols are contained in a wide range of disinfectants. Commonly used alcohols include:
- Propanol (1-propanol): 1-propanol is bactericidal, tuberculocidal, fungicidal, and has limited virucidal activity. This alcohol is also used in herbicides and insecticides. It produces toxic and flammable vapors and can cause severe damage to the mucous membranes on contact with the eyes.
- Isopropanol (2-propanol): Isopropanol works in the same way as 1-propanol. However, isopropanol is less hazardous to the skin and mucous membranes. The vapors of 2-propanol have a sedative effect.
- Ethanol: Ethanol is an alcohol contained in a wide range of products, from alcoholic beverages to disinfectants. Ethanol kills bacteria and fungi and destroys the protein envelopes of enveloped viruses.
In addition to alcohols, a number of other active substances are frequently used to manufacture disinfectants. Here are some typical examples:
- Iodine
- Sodium hypochlorite
- Peracetic acid
- Hydrogen peroxide
