Overview of Technologies

Finding the correct disinfectant can be challenging when you are not sure of which technology to choose. From Bleach to Peracetic Acid (PAA), there are many technologies with tradeoffs that may impact use in your facility. Below is a chart that takes into consideration different requirements your facility may have.

Tech Title

Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide® Accelerated Hydrogen Peroxide®
AHP® is a patented synergistic blend of commonly used, safe ingredients that when combined with low levels of hydrogen peroxide dramatically increase its germicidal potency and cleaning performance. Learn more >
Bleach Bleach
Bleach or sodium hypochlorite, is a legacy solution, and effective for task-oriented disinfection situations where a sporicidal product is needed. Learn more >
Peracetic Acid - PAA Peracetic Acid - PAA
Peracetic acid is a strong oxidizing agent and is a formulation of hydrogen peroxide and acetic acid. It is considered bactericidal, fungicidal, sporicidal and virucidal. Learn more >
Phenolics Phenolics
Phenolics are broad spectrum disinfectants that have been traditionally used for high touch surfaces and floors. They are used in many areas except neo-natal and newborn. Learn more >
Quaternary Alcohols Quaternary Alcohols
Quat alcohol disinfectants are generally used to disinfect counter tops, toilets and other high touch environmental surfaces and floors. Learn more >
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds Quaternary Ammonium Compounds
Quats are generally used to clean and disinfect surfaces and floors, and offer effective and responsible solutions that are compatible with many surfaces and types of equipment. Learn more >

Tech Attribute

Speed

1-5 minute dwell
1-10 Minutes
2-5 minutes
10 minutes
2-5 minutes, may dry before impact
3-10 minutes

Tech Attribute

EPA Toxicity

Caution (safest possible)
Danger
Caution
Warning/Danger
Caution / Warning / Danger
Caution

Tech Attribute

Health Effects

None
Corrosive to eyes and respiratory irritant
None
Corrosive to eyes and skin
Nasal irritation. can irritate or burn skin and eyes, flammable
Dermatitis and nasal irritation

Tech Attribute

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

No special requirements
PPE, increased ventilation
PPE at concentrate, at dilution gloves required, ventilation
PPE, increased ventilation
PPE, increased ventilation
PPE, proper ventilation

Tech Attribute

Odor

Mild
Strong
Pungent vinegar
Mild
Strong
Mild

Tech Attribute

Compatibility with Cleaning Tools

Excellent
Damages over time – reduces life
Good
Good
Damages over time – reduces life
Quat binding may impair performance

Tech Attribute

Compatibility with Surfaces

Good
May damage
Good
May damage
May damage
Good

Tech Attribute

Favorable Environmental Profile

Yes
No
Yes
No
No
No

Tech Attribute

Pre-Cleaning Needed

No – one-step disinfectant cleaner
Yes
No – one-step disinfectant cleaner
No – one-step disinfectant cleaner
Yes
No – one-step disinfectant cleaner