EffectDesH surface disinfectant beats superbugs

The healthcare sector is faced with a constant battle against infection-causing microbes present on surfaces. Most of today’s surface disinfectants contain chlorines, peroxides, quaternary amines or alcohols, which can be harmful to humans and the environment in effective concentrations.

“Typical surface disinfectants come with CLP-warnings (e.g., flammable, corrosive, etc) and release volatile organic compounds (VOC) into the air which might affect both the staff using the product and users of the facilities,” explains Almås.

EffectDes^H is a non-toxic surface disinfectant with a broad-spectrum effect against viruses, bacteria, fungi, mycobacterium and spores. Moreover, it does not induce antimicrobial resistance.

“We have developed a product that is safe to use and well tolerated while still being highly effective. Our technology is based on a molecule produced by the body’s own immune system to eradicate unwanted microbes,” says Almås.

Here he is referring to hypochlorous acid, a naturally occurring substance produced by white blood cells in the body to fight infection. A natural organic acid is added as a stabiliser.

EffectDes^H comes ready to use in a container or bottle.

SoftOx Solutions, the producer of EffectDes^H, won a regional tender to provide surface disinfectant to Swedish hospitals.

EffectDes^H is clinically documented as a skin-friendly disinfectant. Also, due to low release of VOCs, it serves as an ideal alternative to improve indoor air quality.

The environment scores a win as well. The product can be disposed of safely, with no harm to water and aquatic life.

In addition to the healthcare sector, EffectDes^H is relevant for a variety of areas – from schools, offices and airplanes to sports arenas, offshore industries and the military – due to its effectiveness and HSE profile.

The global surface disinfectant market is expected to reach USD 4.6 billion by 2026. This is partly due to greater awareness of the need for virus control measures resulting from the Covid-19 crisis.

“We see an unmet need for a surface disinfectant that is non-toxic. Two key drivers here are customer demand for more eco-friendly products and increasingly strict HSE regulations, such as the EU Biocidal Products Regulation,” says Almås.

SoftOx Solutions also delivers SafeDes+, a hand disinfectant based on the same technology. Solutions for wound care and respiratory tract infections are under development.