malvaSAFE technology compares favourably with a number of existing alternative disinfecting chemical systems.

Puricore’s Sterilox endoscopy cleaning system – is another Hypochlorous Acid [HOCl] technology that has similar safety & biocidal benefits to malvaSAFE but it’s downside is that the sterilox disinfectant is generated on site using very expensive machinery [via electrolysis] that has a limited delivery capability. Furthermore the Sterilox formula causes both damage & corrosion to sensitive endoscope surfaces after prolonged use [>100 cycles] caused primarily by the residue salt, NaCl, it contains.

Peracetic Acid [PAA] based systems such as Gigasept, Terralin, NuCidex, Proxitane & Aperlane are used extensively for endoscopy sterilization, clean-in-place [CIP] & terminal disinfecting. However, in addition to being expensive PAA is a primary irritant to the eyes, skin & the respiratory system, so it does require special user precautions It also possesses an acrid smell, requires a long contact time to disinfect & can also be a long-term corrosive to stainless steels & other machine parts.

Virkon is a widely-used multi-purpose disinfectant containing oxone [potassium peroxymonosulphate] and inorganic buffers. It is typically used for cleaning up hazardous spills, disinfecting surfaces and soaking equipment in a vast range of facilities. Virkon has a wide spectrum of activity against viruses, some fungi & bacteria. However, it is less effective against spores & fungi than malvaSAFE. Virkon’s other drawbacks include it only being supplied as a powder so it needs preparation [malvaSafe can be liquid or powder]. it is very expensive & tends to damage metal surfaces - hence it requires rinsing, after application, inviting the possibility of re-contamination.

Quaternary ammonium compounds, or ‘quats’ such as Hexaquart, have been shown to have broad antimicrobial activity & are often used in the food service industry & in swimming pools as a sanitizing agent. Although they have low toxicity & are non-corrosive they are not very effective in the presence of organic compounds. Quaternary ammonium compounds are deactivated by soaps, other anionic detergents, and cotton fibres. Also, they are not recommended for use in hard water. Additionally, ‘quats’ usually require manual dilution & longer contact times.

Triclosan [based on polychlorophenoxyphenols ] is another anti-bacterial & antifungal agent broad-spectrum surface disinfectant. Again, they have been shown to be irritants to the skin, eyes, respiratory system & mucosa. Moreover, they are expensive compared to chlorine based disinfectants & are harmful to some aquatic bacteria meaning any discharges’ have to be regulated.

Presept & Biospot [based upon sodium dichloroisocyanurates, or NaDCC’s] are also used as a disinfectant, a biocide and for water purification. It works by releasing chlorine in low concentrations at a constant rate. It can only be supplied as a powder or tablet, is not stable in liquid form, requires much longer contact time & is corrosive to most metals. Furthermore, if mixed with hot water, any chlorine release, potentially hazardous, is amplified.

malvaSAFE - why switch?

The HOCl Molecule