The role of the Peracetic acid in cleaning the surfaces

The peracetic acid is already known in the laundry for hygienic washing at low temperatures. However, peracetic acid can also be used for other applications because of its activity against a wide range of micro-organisms, for example for the hygienic cleaning of surfaces.

The prevention of corona infection is of course very important at this time. According to the WHO, drops from the nose or mouth, which are released when coughing, sneezing and exhaling, are the most important route of infection for Corona. The virus is released into the air via the small droplets and can be transmitted from person to person. The social distance of 1.5 meters is therefore an important measure. Small droplets can also fall on objects and surfaces. Anyone else who touches the contaminated surfaces and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth with their hands can also contract the virus this way. Regular surface disinfection can reduce the risk of contamination through this route.

Virucidal activity, the ability to deactivate viruses, is therefore very important in surface cleaning agents. Research shows that peracetic acid has a high activity against the SARS CoV-2 virus (the virus that causes corona) or comparable encapsulated viruses. The oxidative power of the peracetic acid affects the outer membrane of this type of encapsulated viruses. This will deactivate the viruses. Peracetic acid, a reaction product of acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide, also has a high activity against all kinds of micro-organisms, such as bacteria, fungi and yeasts, due to its high oxidative potential. This broad anti-microbiological activity and the harmless residues (acetic acid, oxygen and water) make the peracetic acid widely applicable for cleaning surfaces