Beta -Propiolactone Vapor as a Disinfectant

Abstract

The sporicidal efficiency of beta-propiolactone is a direct function of the concentration, humidity, and temperature at which it is used. These relationships were defined by determining the death rates of Bacillus subtilis var. niger spores on cloth patches exposed to the vapor of the disinfectant under various conditions. Specifically, it was determined that the effectiveness of beta-propiolactone as a vapor-phase disinfectant is greater at high humidities and temperatures. Comparison with other gaseous disinfectants suggests that beta-propiolactone is a highly active vapor-phase disinfectant, safe for routine, general use, and can replace formaldehyde in many practical applications.