Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have discovered a promising alternative to the widely used disinfectant chloroxylenol, which has been associated with environmental threats due to its stability and massive consumption. The alternative, 2,6-dichlorobenzoquinone (2,6-DCQ), is more effective in combating bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and can be rapidly degraded and detoxified in water environments. The study, led by Prof. ZHANG Xiangru, focused on disinfection byproducts (DBPs) and selected 2,6-DCQ based on its effectiveness and degradability in receiving waters.
Inspired by the degradability of halo-phenolic DBPs, the research team tested the efficacy of 2,6-DCQ in inactivating pathogens such as E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, and bacteriophage MS2. They found that 2,6-DCQ was significantly more effective than chloroxylenol in inactivating these pathogens. Additionally, they discovered that the developmental toxicity of 2,6-DCQ to marine polychaete embryos decreased rapidly due to its hydrolysis in receiving seawater. This rapid degradation also occurred in darkness, highlighting the potential eco-friendliness of 2,6-DCQ.
The team’s discovery of 2,6-DCQ as a promising alternative disinfectant is an important step towards addressing the global need for effective and eco-friendly disinfectants, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The team emphasized the adverse effects of chloroxylenol on aquatic organisms and the potential for environmental sustainability by using 2,6-DCQ. The results of the study suggest that 2,6-DCQ could be used in a variety of applications, from personal care products to sanitation in public places, demonstrating its versatility and potential impact.
The innovative study conducted by the HKUST researchers has significant implications for human biosecurity and environmental sustainability. By leveraging the slightly alkaline nature of seawater, the researchers believe that 2,6-DCQ could serve as a model for the development of other green industrial products that can be rapidly degraded in receiving waters. This approach could be extended to sectors such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products, offering a new perspective on eco-friendly industrial processes.
Published in the prestigious journal Nature Communications, the study was a collaborative effort led by Prof. Zhang and included researchers Dr. HAN Jiarui and Dr. LI Wanxin. The research team’s background in civil and environmental engineering allowed them to explore the relationships between disinfection efficiency, degradability, and molecular fingerprints of halophenols. They plan to further investigate optimal disinfectants through machine learning, paving the way for advancements in green industrial products and sustainable practices.
Overall, the discovery of 2,6-DCQ as a promising alternative to chloroxylenol represents a significant advancement in the field of disinfectants. By focusing on effectiveness, degradability, and environmental impact, the researchers at HKUST have identified a potential solution to the challenges posed by traditional disinfectants. As the world continues to grapple with the need for effective and sustainable solutions, 2,6-DCQ offers a promising path towards a more eco-friendly future in disinfection and industrial production.