Tests on self-disinfecting surfaces

Abstract

A variety of surfaces was tested for self-disinfecting action againstStaph. aureusandEsch. coliat a humidity of 42%. Surfaces which had been treated with disinfectants sometimes reduced the survival when the organisms were applied subsequently in drops of broth, but the reduction was very small unless the surface was able to absorb appreciable amounts of disinfectant and the drop of inoculum spread. When the inoculum was applied dried in cotton dust, only surfaces which evolved formaldehyde showed any activity against the bacteria. These surfaces also reduced the survival of bacteria in liquid inocula.We would like to record our thanks to Dr O. M. Lidwell for much helpful advice.