microbicidal

Microbicidal describes agents or processes that kill microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The term distinguishes lethal effects from microbistatic actions, which merely inhibit growth. In practice, microbicidal activity is assessed by reduction of viable organisms under standardized conditions, and agents may be bactericidal, virucidal, fungicidal, or sporicidal depending on their spectrum.

Microbicidal agents are used in disinfection, antisepsis, and sterilization. Disinfectants kill microorganisms on inanimate surfaces, while antiseptics are intended for living tissue. Sporicidal agents destroy bacterial and fungal spores, which are more resistant and often require higher concentrations or longer contact times.

Common mechanisms include disruption of cell membranes, denaturation of proteins, and damage to nucleic acids, leading to irreversible loss of viability. Efficacy depends on concentration, contact time, organic load, temperature, and the specific organism.

Examples of microbicidal substances include sodium hypochlorite (bleach), ethanol and isopropanol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine compounds, chlorhexidine, and aldehydes such as glutaraldehyde. They are used in healthcare, laboratories, water treatment, food processing, and consumer products. Some agents are not suitable for living tissues due to toxicity or corrosiveness.

Regulatory labeling often distinguishes microbicidal or sporicidal claims based on tested conditions. Microbicidal action does not always equate to sterilization; many products provide disinfection rather than complete sterility. The related term microbicide refers to a substance applied to reduce microbial transmission, particularly in medical or sexual health contexts.