Non-oxidizing biocides

Definition

Biocides that target specific biological functions such as cell division, enzyme activity, or membrane integrity rather than oxidizing indiscriminately.

Because they are not consumed by reaction with the EPS matrix as readily as oxidants, they can penetrate biofilm and suppress growth where oxidizers cannot reach. Their specificity cuts both ways, since dormant or slow-growing cells reduce uptake and may simply wait out the exposure. Examples include isothiazolone, glutaraldehyde, DBNPA, and quaternary amines, applied as periodic slug doses.

Related concepts

Oxidizing biocides · Biocide selection · Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS)

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Part of The Blueprint of Water · 🧪 chemistry