The use of the Coulter Counter to detect the inactivation of preservatives by a non-ionic surface-active agent

Abstract

Bacterial and mould spores undergo a germination swelling process which can be accurately measured using a Coulter Counter. The efficacy of preservatives can be assessed by their action in suppressing germination swelling of spores. The antagonism between polysorbate 80 and several preservatives has been demonstrated by measuring swelling of spores in the presence of preservatives and preservative-surfactant mixtures.