The use of immobilised biocides for process water decontamination

Photoprocessing solutions offer an ideal environment for microbial growth and require biocide protection. In this study, isothiazolin-3-one biocidal agents immobilised on hydrophobic beads have been shown to provide significant antimicrobial control in a recirculating system. Proposed mechanisms of action include direct donation of biocide from the supporting resin to the target cell and sustained delivery into solution; both require an optimum balance between biocide and support hydrophobicites to achieve the 72 day biogrowth control seen in practice.