Researchers at HKUST have discovered a promising alternative to chloroxylenol, a commonly used disinfectant, called 2,6-DCQ. This alternative is more effective in combating bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and can be rapidly degraded in water environments. The study led by Prof. Zhang Xiangru found that 2,6-DCQ was significantly more effective than chloroxylenol in inactivating pathogens and had lower developmental toxicity in marine organisms. The team’s discovery offers a potential solution to the need for eco-friendly disinfectants, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their findings have been published in Nature Communications, highlighting the importance of developing green disinfectants for a more sustainable future.
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