Analysis of biocidal efficacies of various disinfectant systems against bacteria, fungi and bacteriophage lambda: A comparative assessment

Abstract

The present study evaluates and compares the biocidal efficacy of five different disinfectant systems on porous and non-porous test surfaces by quantitatively assessing the persistence of bacteria and fungi at specified exposure times. Virucidal activity was tested exclusively on non-porous surfaces and against four disinfectant systems, excluding steam-based disinfectants. The five disinfectant systems used in the study were: plasma cluster-ion technology-based air purifiers, steam disinfection devices, chemicals, ultraviolet (UVC) systems, and antimicrobial coatings. The biocidal efficacy of these disinfectant systems was investigated against various microorganisms: vegetative bacterial cells (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli), bacterial spores (Bacillus subtilis), yeast cells (Candida albicans), fungal spores (Aspergillus brasiliensis), and the non-lipid bacteriophage virus (Lambda). All disinfectants were highly effective on non-porous surfaces compared to porous surfaces. Analysis revealed that UVC disinfectant module were the most effective against bacteria and fungi, while chemical and ion technology-based devices exhibited equal efficacy against bacteriophage virus (lambda). In conclusion, all five disinfection technologies were effective in reducing microbial load. The choice of disinfectant should ultimately be based on its intended purpose, safety, associated risks, and environmental impact.