Observations on the bactericidal action of hexyl resorcinol aerosols

Abstract

The bactericidal action of hexyl resorcinol vapour on airborne clouds of a variety of micro-organisms including pathogens and a virus has been investigated. In addition to killing rates comparable with those found by previous investigators, a phenomenon, which we have called the initial kill, has been demonstrated and experiments carried out to explain its mechanism. Under certain circumstances it enhances the elimination of viable bacteria very substantially. We are indebted for technical assistance to Corporal J. C. G. Harris, R.A.F., to Messrs B. F. Courtnay and C. M. R. Pitman, and to members of the Virus Research and Field Trials Sections.