Hong Kong researchers develop a more environmentally friendly disinfectant
Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have identified a promising alternative to chloroxylenol, a widely used disinfectant associated with eco-toxicological threats in aquatic environments.
Professor Xiangru Zhang led the study, which explored 2,6-dichlorobenzoquinone (2,6-DCQ) as a potentially more effective and environmentally friendly disinfectant.
The research team found that 2,6-DCQ is 9 to 22 times more effective than chloroxylenol in inactivating common pathogens, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Crucially, 2,6-DCQ can be rapidly degraded and detoxified in receiving waters, even in the absence of sunlight. After two days in seawater, 2,6-DCQ exhibited 31 times lower developmental toxicity compared to chloroxylenol.
The COVID-19 pandemic intensified disinfectant use, raising concerns about ecological damage. The fact that chloroxylenol remains stable in water has led to concerns about its impact on marine life. In contrast, 2,6-DCQ's quick degradation in slightly alkaline seawater leads to rapid detoxification.
This research addresses the challenge of balancing human biosecurity with environmental protection. The researchers suggest 2,6-DCQ could replace chloroxylenol in various applications, from personal care products to medical and household disinfectants.
The study, published in Nature Communications with Dr Jiarui Han (Hong Kong University of Science and Technology) and Dr Wanxin Li (Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University) as joint first authors, also has implications for developing other green industrial products that can rapidly degrade in seawater.