Antibacterial components

Abstract

The present disclosure generally describes antimicrobial compositions comprising an aqueous solution containing chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide at a concentration ranging from about 2000 ppm to about 8000 ppm and at least one quaternary ammonium salt at a concentration ranging from about 5000 ppm to about 10000 ppm. The compositions are advantageously effective against a variety of bacteria, viruses, molds, and fungi and can be used in a variety of applications, including, but not limited to, disinfection of healthcare settings and equipment, disinfection of food surfaces, agricultural disinfection, and personal hand care disinfection.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 894,618, filed June 5, 2020, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 869,112, filed July 1, 2019, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 925,997, filed October 25, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 009,863, filed April 14, 2020, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to antimicrobial compositions and methods of using such antimicrobial compositions to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds, and the like. [Background technology]

[0003] Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598) (C. difficile), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Pseudomonas Aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), Enterobacter aerogenes, and other harmful bacteria can be present in a variety of environments, including healthcare, industrial, residential, and food preparation environments. Exposure to these bacteria can cause illness, disease, and / or infection, especially in healthcare settings where patients may have open wounds or compromised immune systems. While various products are available that can effectively kill such organisms, many of these products are undesirable because they contain hazardous chemicals that can be toxic if ingested by humans and can be irritating / harmful to human contact.

[0004] Furthermore, many of the bacteria mentioned above can be present on produce, such as plants, herbs, vegetables, fruits, cannabis, and hemp. For example, harmful amounts of E. coli are often found on lettuce. Powdery mildew is also a fungus that can adversely affect a variety of produce. Traditional antibacterial products cannot be applied to this type of produce because they may harm the produce itself. Thus, while traditional cleaning compositions are effective in killing bacteria and fungi on produce, they may also kill the underlying produce. Because produce is also intended for consumption, toxic chemicals cannot be safely applied to produce.

[0005] There is also a need for antiviral compositions that can effectively kill viruses. Viruses, such as influenza, are endemic to certain human populations and cause illness and death worldwide each year. Furthermore, new viral outbreaks, such as the novel COVID-19 virus, SARS, and MERS, pose a constant threat to human and animal health.

[0006] Thus, there remains a need for compositions that are effective against a variety of microorganisms. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This Summary introduces in a simplified form selected inventive concepts that are more particularly described below in the Detailed Description of the Invention. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure is an antimicrobial composition comprising an aqueous solution containing chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide at a concentration ranging from about 2,000 parts per million (ppm) to about 8,000 ppm, and one or more quaternary ammonium compounds (also referred to herein as "quats") at a concentration ranging from about 5,000 ppm to about 10,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the composition can further include sodium tetraborate decahydrate (borax) at a concentration of at least 8,000 ppm, e.g., from about 8,000 ppm to about 15,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the formulation can include a surfactant at a concentration of at least about 1,000 ppm. Without being bound by theory, the chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide can be considered stabilized chlorine dioxide, which can effectively kill harmful bacteria on a surface to which the antimicrobial composition is applied. The quat can also provide antimicrobial properties that aid in killing harmful bacteria or viruses. Borax can also act as a buffer for the antimicrobial composition and provide antifungal properties to the composition. Surfactants can reduce the surface tension of the antimicrobial composition, making it easier to apply to an object.

[0009] In one embodiment, the antimicrobial composition comprises an aqueous solution comprising chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in a concentration ranging from about 2000 ppm to about 8000 ppm, and at least one quaternary ammonium compound in a concentration ranging from about 5000 ppm to about 10000 ppm.

[0010] In some embodiments, the aqueous solution has a concentration of chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in the range of about 5000 ppm to about 8000 ppm, and the at least one quaternary ammonium salt in the range of about 6000 ppm to about 10000 ppm.

[0011] In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium salt comprises n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, cetrimonium, tetraethylammonium bromide, domiphen bromide, benzethonium chloride, or any combination thereof.

[0012] In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium salts include n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride. In some embodiments, the alkyl group of the n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride is C 12 carbon group, C 14 carbon group, C 16 Carbon groups and C 18 In some embodiments, the alkyl group of the n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride is C 12 Carbon groups and C 14 In some embodiments, the n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride contains about 5% C 12 Carbon group, about 60% C 14 Carbon group, about 30% C 16 carbon groups, and about 5% C 18 Contains carbon groups, and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride has about 68% C 12 Carbon groups and approximately 32% C 14 Contains carbon groups.

[0013] In some embodiments, the composition further comprises sodium tetraborate in a concentration ranging from about 8000 ppm to about 15000 ppm.

[0014] In some embodiments, the composition further comprises a buffering agent, hi some embodiments, the buffering agent comprises sodium bicarbonate, ferric chloride, citric acid, sodium percarbonate, trisodium phosphate, acetic acid, sodium acetate, or any combination thereof.

[0015] In some embodiments, the buffer comprises sodium acetate at a concentration ranging from about 500 to about 1500 ppm. In some embodiments, the buffer further comprises acetic acid at a concentration ranging from about 100 to about 5000 ppm, the acetic acid being at a dilution ratio of about 1:8 to about 1:12.

[0016] In some embodiments, the composition further comprises a surfactant at a concentration ranging from about 100 ppm to about 3000 ppm, hi some embodiments, the surfactant comprises a nonionic surfactant.

[0017] In some embodiments, the surfactant comprises an alkoxylated nonionic surfactant, such as an ethoxylated alcohol. In some embodiments, the ethoxylated alcohol is a C9-C 11 It is an ethoxylated alcohol.

[0018] In some embodiments, the pH of the composition ranges from about 6.8 to about 7.2.

[0019] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition has substantially 100% sporicidal efficacy against endospores (spores) of Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598) after a contact time of up to about 120 seconds when tested according to ASTM E2315.

[0020] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition has substantially 100% sporicidal efficacy against Escherichia coli endospores after a contact time of about 30 seconds when tested according to ASTM E2315.

[0021] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial agent comprises an aqueous solution containing about 5,000 ppm chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide, about 7,000 ppm quaternary ammonium compound, and about 100 ppm ethoxylated alcohol surfactant. In one embodiment, the quaternary ammonium compound comprises n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride. The composition can further comprise about 10,000 ppm sodium tetraborate. In another embodiment, the composition further comprises about 800 ppm sodium acetate and about 3,200 ppm acetic acid, the acetic acid being diluted 1:10. In yet another embodiment, the composition further comprises sodium acetate, ferric chloride, citric acid, sodium percarbonate, trisodium phosphate, or any combination thereof, at a concentration ranging from about 500 to about 1,000 ppm.

[0022] The antimicrobial compositions can be used as cleaning compounds to kill unwanted bacteria on desired surfaces or products, and in different embodiments, can be sold in liquid or aerosol form. Accordingly, the present disclosure further provides a method for disinfecting an object, the method comprising applying any of the above-described compositions to the object. The object can be a hard or soft surface. In some embodiments, the object is contaminated with bacteria or viruses, and the method kills at least 99% of the viruses or bacteria on the object.

[0023] In other embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method for disinfecting air, comprising electrostatically spraying any of the compositions described above.

[0024] Another aspect of the present disclosure is the application of antimicrobial compositions to produce (including, but not limited to, plants, vegetables, fruits, herbs, grains, legumes, cannabis, hemp, etc.) that can effectively eliminate bacteria on the produce while substantially preserving the produce itself.

[0025] Another aspect of the present disclosure is the application of antimicrobial compositions to water supplies to kill bacteria within the water supply, and such methods can be used in medical settings, for example, in dialysis machines, to purify treated water. The antimicrobial compositions can effectively kill bacteria in the water, yet are safe and ingestible by patients.

[0026] Many other objects, advantages and features of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following drawings and description of the preferred embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a table summarizing the killing results of exemplary compositions against P. aeruginosa. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a table summarizing the results of studies of exemplary compositions against E. coli and S. aureus. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a table summarizing the results of studies of exemplary compositions against E. aerogenes and S. aureus. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary package for the dry ingredients for the antimicrobial composition. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a process for mixing dry packaged ingredients. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] While various embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, it should be understood that the present invention provides many suitable inventive concepts that may be embodied in a variety of contexts. The specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to implement the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize many equivalents to the specific devices and methods described herein. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of the present invention and are covered by the claims.

[0029] For clarity, not all reference numbers are included in each figure. Also, location terms such as "upper," "lower," "side," "top," and "bottom" refer to the device in the orientation shown. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the device may be oriented differently in use.

[0030] The modifier "about" used herein with respect to contact time can represent a tolerance of up to 5 seconds around the recited contact time. The modifier "about" used with respect to chlorine dioxide concentration represents a tolerance of up to 5 percent around the recited concentration.

[0031] The modifier "substantially" used in relation to percent sporicidal effectiveness means that at least 99.99% of the bacteria present in the sample are killed or eliminated, or some deviation from 100% killing effectiveness, but without infectious effects and within relevant and appropriate regulatory compliance.

[0032] The concentrations stated herein are the concentration of the particular component relative to the entire antimicrobial composition, not just the water component of the composition.

[0033] One aspect of the present disclosure is an antimicrobial composition comprising chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide dissolved in water. The composition comprises a chlorite, such as sodium chlorite, as one component. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that a portion of the sodium chlorite will form chlorine dioxide when dissolved in water. Thus, the term "chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide" encompasses solutions containing chlorite (such as sodium chlorite), chlorine dioxide, and mixtures thereof.

[0034] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition may have an apparent sporicidal effect of substantially 100% against endospores of Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598) after a contact time of up to about 120 seconds, or after about 120 seconds, in a test according to ASTM E2315.

[0035] In some embodiments, the concentration of chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution can be about 1000 ppm to about 10,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution can be about 3,000 ppm to about 7,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution can be about 4,000 ppm to about 6,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution can be about 1,000 ppm, 2,000 ppm, 3,000 ppm, 4,000 ppm, 5,000 ppm, 6,000 ppm, 7,000 ppm, 8,000 ppm, 9,000 ppm, or 10,000 ppm.

[0036] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can include sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution can range from about 1,000 ppm to about 10,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution can range from about 3,000 ppm to about 7,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution can range from about 4,000 ppm to about 6,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution can be about 1,000 ppm, 2,000 ppm, 3,000 ppm, 4,000 ppm, 5,000 ppm, 6,000 ppm, 7,000 ppm, 8,000 ppm, 9,000 ppm, or 10,000 ppm.

[0037] The sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in the antimicrobial composition provide antimicrobial or antibacterial properties that can effectively kill unwanted bacteria (e.g., Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598), Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli (E-coli), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, etc.) upon contact with the antimicrobial composition.

[0038] In some embodiments, the contact time required to achieve substantially 100% sporicidal efficacy against Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598) endospores in accordance with ASTM E2315 can range from about 60 seconds to about 120 seconds. In some embodiments, the contact time required to achieve substantially 100% sporicidal efficacy against Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598) endospores in accordance with ASTM E2315 can be about 15 seconds. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can have substantially 100% apparent sporicidal efficacy against endospores of other bacteria (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, etc.) after a contact time of about 15 to 120 seconds in accordance with ASTM E2315.

[0039] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can include sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide and a quaternary ammonium compound solution. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can have an apparent sporicidal effect of substantially 100% against endospores of Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598) after a contact time described herein, as tested in accordance with ASTM E2315. One or more quats can provide additional antimicrobial or antibacterial properties and can help kill unwanted or harmful bacteria.

[0040] In some embodiments, the total concentration of the one or more quats in the aqueous solution can range from about 4,000 ppm to about 12,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the total concentration of the one or more quats in the aqueous solution can range from about 6,000 ppm to about 10,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the total concentration of the one or more quats in the aqueous solution can range from about 6,000 ppm to about 9,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the total concentration of the one or more quats in the aqueous solution can be about 4,000 ppm, 5,000 ppm, 6,000 ppm, 7,000 ppm, 8,000 ppm, 9,000 ppm, or 10,000 ppm, 11,000 ppm, or 12,000 ppm. In some embodiments, a single quat can be used, while in other embodiments, multiple quats can be used in combination with each other.

[0041] Quat can destroy bacterial cell walls, thereby providing bactericidal properties to bacteria.Various types of quat can be used, for example, quaternary ammonium salts include, but are not limited to, n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, cetrimonium, tetraethylammonium bromide, domiphen bromide, benzethonium chloride, or any combination thereof.

[0042] In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium salts include n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride. The n-alkyl group of the n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride can include an n-alkyl group selected from C12, C14, C16, C18, and any combination thereof. The n-alkyl group of the n-alkyldimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride can include an n-alkyl group selected from C12, C14, and combinations thereof. The antimicrobial composition of claim 4, wherein the n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride contains about 5% C12 carbon groups, about 60% C14 carbon groups, about 30% C16 carbon groups, and about 5% C18 carbon groups, and the n-alkyldimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride contains about 68% C12 carbon groups and about 32% C14 carbon groups.

[0043] In some embodiments, the quaternary ammonium compound is BTC® 2125M, available from Stephan Antimicrobials.

[0044] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can further include sodium tetraborate decahydrate (borax). Borax can act as a buffering agent and help balance the pH of the antimicrobial composition. Borax can also provide antifungal properties, helping to kill fungi and prevent fungal growth on the surface being cleaned. In some embodiments, the concentration of borax in the aqueous solution can range from about 5,000 ppm to about 15,000 ppm, or from about 8,000 ppm to about 15,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium tetraborate in the composition ranges from about 7,000 ppm to about 13,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium tetraborate in the composition ranges from about 9,000 ppm to about 11,000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium tetraborate in the composition is about 5000 ppm, about 6000 ppm, about 7000 ppm, about 8000 ppm, about 9000 ppm, about 10000 ppm, about 11000 ppm, about 12000 ppm, about 13000 ppm, about 14000 ppm, or about 15000 ppm.

[0045] In further embodiments, the antimicrobial composition further comprises a buffering agent selected from sodium bicarbonate, ferric chloride, citric acid, sodium percarbonate, trisodium phosphate, acetic acid, sodium acetate, and any combination thereof. The buffering agent may be in addition to sodium tetraborate, or the composition may comprise one of these buffering agents and not sodium tetraborate.

[0046] In some embodiments, the composition does not include sodium tetraborate and further comprises a buffering agent selected from sodium bicarbonate, ferric chloride, citric acid, sodium percarbonate, trisodium phosphate, and any combination thereof.

[0047] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can include sodium acetate and acetic acid as buffering agents. The dilution ratio of acetic acid can be 1:5 and 1:15. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium acetate in the aqueous solution can be in the range of about 500 ppm to about 1500 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium acetate in the aqueous solution can be in the range of about 600 ppm to about 1100 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium acetate in the aqueous solution can be in the range of about 700 ppm to about 900 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of sodium acetate in the aqueous solution can be about 500 ppm, about 600 ppm, about 700 ppm, about 800 ppm, about 900 ppm, or about 1000 ppm, about 1100 ppm, about 1200 ppm, about 1300 ppm, about 1400 ppm, or about 1500 ppm.

[0048] In some embodiments, the dilution ratio of the acetic acid can range from about 1:8 to 1:12. In some embodiments, the dilution ratio of the acetic acid can be about 1:5, 1:6, 1:7, 1:8, 1:9, 1:10, 1:11, 1:12, 1:13, 1:14, or 1:15.

[0049] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can include a surfactant that is unresponsive to chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide. In some embodiments, the surfactant that is unresponsive to chlorine dioxide and / or sodium chlorite is a non-amine surfactant. In other embodiments, the surfactant that is unresponsive to chlorine dioxide and / or sodium chlorite or salts of chlorine dioxide can be a non-octyl dimethylamine oxide surfactant. In other embodiments, the surfactant that is unresponsive to chlorine dioxide and / or sodium chlorite or salts of chlorine dioxide can be a non-lauryl dimethylamine oxide surfactant. In still other embodiments, the surfactant can be any suitable surfactant that can reduce the surface tension of the antimicrobial composition and help to more easily disperse the antimicrobial compound on the target surface or object. In some embodiments, the surfactant can be an alkoxylated nonionic surfactant, such as an ethoxylated alcohol. In some embodiments, the ethoxylated alcohol is a C6-C6 20 In other embodiments, the ethoxylated alcohol is a C9-C 11 Ethoxylated alcohols include surfactants sold under the trade name Tomadol®, such as Tomadol 900. In other embodiments, the surfactant can include nonylphenol ethoxylate, nonylphenol propoxylate, or linear alkoxylated C6-C20 alcohols (4 to 15 moles of EO or PO).

[0050] In some embodiments, the concentration of the surfactant in the aqueous solution can be in the range of about 100 ppm to about 3000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of the surfactant in the aqueous solution can be in the range of about 500 ppm to about 2000 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of the surfactant in the aqueous solution can be in the range of about 700 ppm to about 1300 ppm. In some embodiments, the concentration of the surfactant in the aqueous solution can be about 300 ppm, about 400 ppm, about 500 ppm, about 600 ppm, about 700 ppm, about 800 ppm, about 900 ppm, about 1000 ppm, about 1100 ppm, about 1100 ppm, about 1200 ppm, about 1300 ppm, about 1400 ppm, about 1500 ppm, about 1600 ppm, about 1700 ppm, about 1800 ppm, about 1900 ppm, or about 2000 ppm.

[0051] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can include specific ingredients in the following weight percentages: 98.4% to 99.0% water, 0.45% to 0.55% sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide, and 0.63% to 0.77% quat. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can further include additional ingredients in the following weight percentages: 0.009% to 0.011% acetic acid, 0.09% to 0.11% surfactant, and 0.072% to 0.088% sodium acetate. In some embodiments, sodium tetraborate can be substituted with 0.072% to 0.088% by weight of any one of the following ingredients: baking soda (sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO3), iron chloride (FeCl3), citric acid (C6H8O7), sodium percarbonate (Na2H3CO6), or trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4).

[0052] In some embodiments, the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure can be sold in powder form, which can then be added to an appropriate amount of water. In some embodiments, the powder antimicrobial composition can have the following dry weight percentages of specific ingredients: 30.0%-47.0% sodium chlorite, and 45.0%-63.0% quat. In some embodiments, the powder antimicrobial composition can have the following dry weight percentages of specific ingredients: 30.0%-40.0% sodium chlorite, 45.0%-55.0% quat, 0.5%-0.9% acetic acid, 5.0%-9.0% surfactant, and 4.0%-7.0% sodium acetate (or other substitutes as noted above).

[0053] In some embodiments, the powder can be packaged in a multi-compartment container to separate some components of the powder from others until the powder is added to water, as shown in Figures 4 and 5. For example, in some embodiments, sodium chlorite or chlorine dioxide salts can be kept separate from the other components of the powder within the powder package. The package can be torn open and the contents poured into an appropriate amount of water to prepare the desired antimicrobial solution. Providing separate compartments for one or more components of the powder antimicrobial composition helps prevent undesirable chemical reactions between the powder chemical components before the powder antimicrobial composition is mixed with water, thereby advantageously extending shelf life and providing a more portable product. In some embodiments, the appropriate amount of water can be defined as the amount of water that, when mixed with the powder antimicrobial composition, produces a solution of 98.4% to 98.8% water and 1.2% to 1.6% powder components by weight.

[0054] In other embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can be formulated as a hand care product, such as a disinfectant gel, spray, wipe, or lotion. In one embodiment, the composition includes sodium chlorite in an amount ranging from about 0.4 to 0.5% by weight, a quat (e.g., Stepan BTC® 2125 (80%)) in an amount ranging from about 0.6 to about 0.7% by weight, a surfactant (e.g., Tomadol® 900) in an amount ranging from about 0.05 to about 0.1% by weight, sodium tetraborate in an amount ranging from about 0.5 to about 1.0% by weight, an emollient compound in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to about 0.5% by weight, and up to about 97.5% by weight of deionized water. In one embodiment, the emollient compound can be glycerin. In other embodiments, the emollient includes glycerin, shea butter, cocoa butter, lanolin, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, sodium tetraborate can be substituted with 0.072% to 0.088% by weight of any one of the following ingredients: baking soda (sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO), iron chloride (FeCl), citric acid (CHO), sodium percarbonate (NaHCO), or trisodium phosphate (NaPO). The hand care formulations can be advantageously packaged for a variety of uses, including point-of-care dispensers, public restroom dispensers, and personal dispenser bottles for travel.

[0055] The antimicrobial compositions can be used in many different types of applications or management protocols. For example, in some embodiments, the antimicrobial compositions are hard surface disinfectants and can be in liquid form, which can be poured or sprayed from a conventional spray bottle onto the desired surface to be cleaned. In other embodiments, the antimicrobial compositions can be in aerosol form to serve as air disinfectants. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial compositions can be electrostatically sprayable air disinfectants. The antimicrobial compositions can be used to clean surfaces in a variety of environments, including, but not limited to, healthcare, industrial, and residential environments (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms), hospitals, healthcare facilities, clinics, schools or other public buildings, industrial packaging plants, factories, manufacturing facilities, food processing and packaging facilities, restaurants, bars, and the like. The antimicrobial compositions can be used as wound cleansers or disinfectants to clean cuts, abrasions, or other wounds, and can also be used in healthcare settings to sterilize injection or surgical sites. The antimicrobial compositions can also be used for industrial cleaning services, such as mold and mildew removal services.

[0056] The compositions described above can be used at the concentrations described above, or the compositions can be further diluted as needed for specific applications. For example, the compositions can be diluted by the end user with additional water in amounts ranging from about 1:1 to about 1:40, from about 1:1 to about 1:20, from about 1:2 to about 1:20, from about 1:2 to about 1:15, from about 1:5 to about 1:20, from about 1:5 to about 1:15, about 1:10, about 1:25, about 1:20, or about 1:40. Alternatively, the antimicrobial compositions can be diluted and sold in a ready-to-use form for a particular application.

[0057] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for treating produce, comprising the steps of: preparing an antimicrobial composition comprising any of the compositions described above; and applying the antimicrobial composition to the produce. The antimicrobial agent can effectively kill undesirable bacteria from the produce while leaving the produce substantially intact. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition is diluted at a dilution ratio of about 1:10 to about 1:40 prior to treatment. In some embodiments, the produce can be various types of plants, vegetables, fruits, legumes, grains, cannabis, hemp, etc. The antimicrobial composition of the present disclosure can advantageously kill unwanted bacteria and / or fungi while maintaining the integrity of the original produce. Testing of one embodiment of the antimicrobial composition on cannabis plants found that the antimicrobial composition provided the sporicidal effects described herein, while no significant damage or adverse effects were observed in the cannabis plants to which the compound was applied. In yet other embodiments, the antimicrobial composition can be applied to the meat and poultry industries to wash meat and poultry products prior to packaging.

[0058] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for treating a food source, such as a food source fed to an animal or livestock, comprising the steps of: providing one of the antimicrobial compositions described above; and applying the antimicrobial composition to the food source. Applying the antimicrobial composition to a food source, such as an animal feed product, helps destroy unwanted bacteria in the food source before feeding the food source to the animal or livestock. Treating a food source with the antimicrobial composition of the present disclosure has also been shown to kill harmful bacteria in the stomach or digestive tract of target animals (e.g., chickens and pigs) when the food source is ingested. Such treatment protocols can keep animals and livestock healthy and prevent the transmission of unwanted bacteria to humans who may consume such animals or livestock.

[0059] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a method of treating a water supply, the method comprising the steps of: providing the antimicrobial composition described above; and introducing the antimicrobial composition into the water supply. In some embodiments, the antimicrobial composition may meet EPA standards for Category IV products or may be non-toxic and non-irritating from a regulatory perspective. Thus, the antimicrobial composition can be used to treat drinking water supplies and other water supplies that may interact with humans or animals, because the antimicrobial is safe for consumption by humans and animals. In healthcare settings, the antimicrobial composition can be used to treat water supplies that may serve various medical devices (e.g., medical dialysis machines).

[0060] Thus, the antimicrobial compositions of the present disclosure can provide antimicrobial properties that can help kill unwanted bacteria from surfaces or products. In some embodiments and applications, the antimicrobial compositions can also help provide antibacterial, antifungal, sanitizing, disinfecting, odor-eliminating, or other beneficial cleaning properties. Because the antimicrobial compositions are typically safe for human and animal contact, the products can be used to treat produce and / or water supplies, making them safe for public consumption or use.

[0061] Illustrative Embodiments 1. An antibacterial composition comprising an aqueous solution containing chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in a concentration ranging from about 2000 ppm to about 8000 ppm, and at least one quaternary ammonium salt in a concentration ranging from about 5000 ppm to about 10000 ppm.

[0062] 2. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 1, wherein the concentration of the chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide in the aqueous solution is in the range of about 5000 ppm to about 8000 ppm, and the at least one quaternary ammonium salt is in the concentration range of about 6000 ppm to about 10000 ppm.

[0063] 3. The antibacterial composition of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the quaternary ammonium salt comprises n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, n-alkyldimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, cetalkonium chloride, cetylpyridinium chloride, cetrimonium, tetraethylammonium bromide, domiphen bromide, benzethonium chloride, or any combination thereof.

[0064] 4. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 3, wherein the quaternary ammonium salts comprise n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride.

[0065] 5. The alkyl group of n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride is C 12 carbon group, C 14 carbon group, C 16 Carbon groups and C 18 The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 4, comprising a carbon group.

[0066] 6. The alkyl group of n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride is C 12 Carbon groups and C 14 The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 4, comprising a carbon group.

[0067] 7. n-Alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride has about 5% C 12 Carbon group, about 60% C 14 Carbon group, about 30% C 16 carbon groups, and about 5% C 18 Contains carbon groups, and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride has about 68% C 12 Carbon groups and approximately 32% C 14 The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 4, comprising a carbon group.

[0068] 8. The antimicrobial composition of any one of embodiments 1-7, further comprising sodium tetraborate in a concentration ranging from about 8000 ppm to about 15000 ppm.

[0069] 9. The antimicrobial composition of any one of embodiments 1-8, further comprising a buffering agent.

[0070] 10. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 9, wherein the buffering agent comprises sodium bicarbonate, ferric chloride, citric acid, sodium percarbonate, trisodium phosphate, acetic acid, sodium acetate, or any combination thereof.

[0071] 11. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 10, wherein the buffering agent comprises sodium acetate at a concentration ranging from about 500 to about 1500 ppm.

[0072] 12. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 10 or 11, wherein the buffer further comprises acetic acid at a concentration ranging from about 100 to about 5000 ppm, and the acetic acid is at a dilution ratio of about 1:8 to about 1:12.

[0073] 13. The antimicrobial composition of any one of embodiments 1-12, further comprising a surfactant in a concentration ranging from about 100 ppm to about 3000 ppm.

[0074] 14. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 13, wherein the surfactant comprises a non-ionic surfactant.

[0075] 15. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 13, wherein the surfactant comprises an alkoxylated nonionic surfactant.

[0076] 16. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 15, wherein the alkoxylated nonionic surfactant comprises an ethoxylated alcohol.

[0077] 17. Ethoxylated alcohols are C9-C 11 The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 16, wherein the alcohol is an ethoxylated alcohol.

[0078] 18. The antimicrobial composition of any one of embodiments 1-17, wherein the pH of the composition ranges from about 6.8 to about 7.2.

[0079] 19. The antimicrobial composition of any one of embodiments 1-18, wherein the antimicrobial composition has substantially 100% sporicidal efficacy against endospores of Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598) after a contact time of up to about 120 seconds when tested in accordance with ASTM E2315.

[0080] 20. The antimicrobial composition of any one of embodiments 1-19, wherein the antimicrobial composition has substantially 100% sporicidal efficacy against endospores of Escherichia coli after a contact time of about 30 seconds when tested in accordance with ASTM E2315.

[0081] 21. About 5000 ppm chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide; Approximately 7000 ppm of quaternary ammonium compounds, Approximately 100 ppm of ethoxylated alcohol surfactant 1. An antimicrobial composition comprising an aqueous solution comprising:

[0082] 22. The antibacterial composition of embodiment 21, wherein the quaternary ammonium compounds comprise n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride.

[0083] 23. The antimicrobial composition of embodiment 21 or 22, further comprising about 10,000 ppm of sodium tetraborate.

[0084] 24. The antimicrobial composition of any one of embodiments 21-23, further comprising about 800 ppm sodium acetate and about 3200 ppm acetic acid, wherein the acetic acid is at a 1:10 dilution.

[0085] 25. The antimicrobial composition of any one of embodiments 21-24, wherein the composition further comprises sodium acetate, ferric chloride, citric acid, sodium percarbonate, trisodium phosphate, or any combination thereof, in a concentration ranging from about 500 to about 1500 ppm.

[0086] 26. A method for disinfecting an object, comprising applying the composition of claim 1 to the object.

[0087] 27. The embodiment of claim 26, wherein the object is a hard or soft surface.

[0088] 28. The embodiment of claim 28, wherein the object is contaminated with bacteria or viruses and the method kills at least 99.5% of the viruses or bacteria on the object.

[0089] 29. The embodiment of claim 28, wherein the bacteria comprises Clostridium difficile, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes, or any combination thereof.

[0090] 30. The embodiment of claim 28, wherein the virus comprises COVID-19, SARS, MERS, influenza, or any combination thereof.

[0091] 31. A method of disinfecting produce, comprising applying the composition of any one of embodiments 1-25 to the produce.

[0092] 32. The method of embodiment 31, wherein the produce is substantially free of fungi, molds, spores, bacteria, or viruses.

[0093] 33. The method of embodiment 31 or 32, wherein the agricultural product is a cannabis plant.

[0094] 34. An antimicrobial hand care composition comprising sodium chlorite in an amount ranging from about 0.4 to 0.5 wt %, a quaternary ammonium salt in an amount ranging from about 0.6 to about 0.7 wt %, a surfactant in an amount ranging from about 0.05 to about 0.1 wt %, sodium tetraborate in an amount ranging from about 0.5 to about 1.0 wt %, an emollient compound in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to about 0.5 wt %, and up to about 97.5 wt % deionized water.

[0095] 35. The antimicrobial hand care composition of embodiment 34, comprising sodium chlorite in an amount ranging from about 0.4 to 0.5 wt. %, a quaternary ammonium salt in an amount ranging from about 0.6 to about 0.7 wt. %, a surfactant in an amount ranging from about 0.05 to about 0.1 wt. %, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO3), iron chloride (FeCl3), citric acid (C6H8O7), sodium percarbonate (Na2H3CO6), trisodium phosphate (Na3PO4) in an amount ranging from about 0.07 to about 0.88 wt. %, an emollient compound in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to about 0.5 wt. %, and up to about 97.5 wt. % deionized water.

[0096] 36. The antimicrobial hand care composition of embodiment 34 or 35, wherein the emollient compound comprises glycerin, shea butter, cocoa butter, lanolin, propylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

[0097] 37. Quaternary ammonium compounds include quaternary ammonium salts, and quaternary ammonium salts include n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium bromide, cetalkonium chloride, cetalkonium bromide, cetylpyridinium chloride, cetylpyridinium bromide, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, cetrimonium, tetraethylammonium bromide, domiphen bromide, domiphen chloride, dophanium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and benzyl (C 12~1837. The antimicrobial hand care composition of any one of claims 34-36, comprising alkyldimethylammonium chloride, benzyldodecyldimethylammonium bromide, benzyldodecyldimethylammonium chloride, dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide, hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium chloride, tetraethylammonium bromide, tetraethylammonium chloride, or any combination thereof. [Example]

[0098] Exemplary antimicrobial compositions according to the present disclosure are listed in Table 1.

[0099] [Table 1]

[0100] 1 is a table summarizing the results of tests conducted to test compositions of the present disclosure containing 0.5% sodium chlorite and / or chlorine dioxide against P. aeruginosa. Further testing confirmed that Formulation 1 was able to kill E. coli, S. aureus, and Botrytis cinerea with 99.9999% sporicidal efficacy after 15 seconds, and P. aeruginosa with 99.99% sporicidal efficacy after 15 seconds. [Example]

[0101] Bactericidal and detergent disinfecting action of antibacterial compositions The purpose of this assay is to confirm the effectiveness of Formulation 1 (RD286) in disinfecting pre-cleaned non-porous food contact surfaces using the AOAC Method for the Sanitizing Detergent Action of Sanitizers, which complies with the requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Health Canada.

[0102] Test Material Preparation: A 1:15 equivalence dilution (defined as 1 part test material + 15 parts diluent) was prepared using 14.0 mL of test material and 210.0 mL of 400 ppm AOAC synthetic hard water. The prepared test material was visually confirmed to be homogeneous and used within 3 hours of preparation. 99.0 mL aliquots of the test material were transferred to sterile 250-300 mL Erlenmeyer flasks for each test organism and lot. Each flask was placed in a 25.0°C water bath and equilibrated for at least 10 minutes.

[0103] Test Organism Preparation: For Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) and Escherichia coli (ATCC 11229), a loopful of stock organism broth culture from a thawed cryovial was streaked onto a nutrient agar A slant and incubated at 35-37°C (36.0°C) for 24 ± 2 hours (23 hours). For the final test culture, after incubation, 5.0 mL of phosphate-buffered dilution water (PBDW) was added to the nutrient agar A slant. A sterile loop was used to remove the growth from the agar surface. The mixture was then collected and transferred to a container containing 99.0 mL of PBDW and mixed thoroughly. For each test organism, 200 μL of culture was used to inoculate a total of five nutrient agar B plates, and the inoculum was spread to form a vegetative lawn. The plates were incubated at 35-37°C (36.0°C) for 24 ± 2 hours (24 hours). After incubation, 5.0 mL of phosphate-buffered saline + 0.1% Tween 80 was added to each plate. A plate spreader was used to gently remove the culture from the agar surface without disrupting the agar. The culture was harvested, coalesced, and then mixed thoroughly. The harvested culture was filtered through sterile Whatman #2 filter paper using a vacuum source. Approximately 1 x 10 9 ~1×10 10 Spectrophotometric analysis was performed at a wavelength of 620 nm to target CFU / mL (9–10 log / mL). The final absorbance values ​​were 1.443 for Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) and 1.441 for Escherichia coli (ATCC 11229).

[0104] Addition of organic soil load: A 0.30 mL aliquot of FBS was added to 5.7 mL of each prepared culture to give a 5% fetal bovine serum organic soil load.

[0105] Exposure conditions: Just before adding the suspension, each flask containing the test substance was stopped from rotating to allow sufficient liquid movement to avoid stagnation of the suspension at the point of contact with the test substance. A 1.00 mL aliquot of culture was added midway between the center and edge of the surface, with the pipette tip slightly immersed in the test solution. Touching the neck or sides of the flask was avoided. Each flask was rotated to thoroughly mix the contents and exposed to 25 ± 1°C (25.0°C) for 30 seconds.

[0106] Test System Recovery: After exposure, 1.00 mL of the inoculated test material was transferred to 9 mL of neutralizer. The neutralized material was vortex mixed. The neutralized contents were then diluted to 10 mL. -1 Four 1.00 mL aliquots and four 0.100 mL aliquots of the neutralized material were transferred to individual sterile petri dishes and spread onto subculture agar plates.

[0107] Incubation and Observation: All subculture plates were incubated at 35-37°C (36.0°C) for 24-30 hours (24 hours). After incubation, the subculture plates were visually inspected for growth. Representative test cultures and positive control subcultures that showed growth were visually inspected and Gram stained and biochemical assays were used to confirm or exclude the presence of the test organism.

[0108] Purity Control: An "isolation streak plate" was performed on each organism culture and tested after incubation to confirm the presence of a pure culture. This investigation control is passed based on the presence of a pure culture exhibiting colony morphology characteristic of the test organism.

[0109] Organic soil sterility control: In parallel with the test, the serum used in the organic soil equivalent load was cultured, incubated, and visually inspected for growth. This inspection control was deemed successful if there was no growth.

[0110] Neutralizer Sterility Control: In parallel with the test, the neutralizer used in the test was evaluated for sterility. A representative sample (1.00 mL) of the neutralizer was inoculated onto the same subculture medium as in the test. The plates were incubated and visually inspected. The control was passed based on the absence of growth.

[0111] Test Article Diluent Sterility Control: In parallel with the test, the test article diluent used in the test was evaluated for sterility. A representative sample (1.00 mL) of the test article diluent was plated onto the same subculture agar medium as in the test. The plates were incubated and visually inspected. The control was passed based on the absence of growth.

[0112] PBDW Sterility Control: In parallel with the test, the PBDW used in the test was evaluated for sterility. A representative sample (1.00 mL) of the PBDW was inoculated onto the same subculture medium as in the test. The plates were incubated and visually inspected. The control was considered a pass if there was no growth.

[0113] Sterility control of test substances: For each lot used in the test, a representative sample (1.00 mL) of the prepared test substance was inoculated onto the same subculture agar medium as in the test. Each plate was incubated and visually inspected.

[0114] Numerical Control: A 99.0 mL aliquot of PBDW was transferred to a 250-300 mL sterile Erlenmeyer flask for each test organism. Each flask was equilibrated in a 25.0°C water bath for at least 10 minutes. Each flask was swirled and 1.00 mL of culture was added as in the previous test procedure. Each flask was swirled to thoroughly mix the contents. Within approximately 30 seconds, 1.00 mL of the contents was transferred to 9 mL of neutralizing agent. The neutralized contents were then transferred to 10 mL of neutralizing agent. -1 This corresponds to the dilution. -6 As in the test, -6Four 1.00 mL aliquots and four 0.100 mL aliquots of the dilutions were plated onto subculture agar plates. -6 Dilutions and 10 -7 The dilutions were made. The plates were incubated. This control was diluted 7.0 log 10 The minimum value is used as the judgment criterion and is considered to be acceptable.

[0115] Neutralization control: The following neutralization control was performed in parallel with the test. Each test culture was diluted to 1 x 10 4 ~1×10 5 CFU / mL was targeted (each control process aimed to achieve a result of 10-100 CFU inoculation). Multiple organism dilutions were prepared.

[0116] Test Culture Titer (TCT): A 0.100 mL aliquot of diluted test organism was added to 10.0 mL of PBDW and vortex mixed. The mixture was held for a minimum of 2 minutes and then inoculated with two 0.100 mL aliquots as in the test. This test control is passed based on growth.

[0117] Neutralization Confirmation Control Treatment (NCT): A 1.00 mL aliquot of test material for each lot was added to 9 mL of neutralizer and vortex mixed. Within approximately 30 seconds, 0.100 mL of diluted test organism was added to the neutralized contents and vortex mixed. The mixture was held for a minimum of 2 minutes, and two 0.100 mL aliquots were spread and inoculated as in the test. This investigational control was performed at 1 log of the test culture titer (TCT). 10 Growth within this range is considered acceptable.

[0118] Neutralizer Toxicity Treatment (NTT): A 0.100 mL aliquot of diluted test organism was added to 10.0 mL of neutralizer and vortex mixed. This mixture was held for a minimum of 2 minutes, and two 0.100 mL aliquots were spread and inoculated as in the test. This study control was performed at 1 log of the test culture titer (TCT). 10 Growth within this range is considered acceptable.

[0119] Formulation 1 lots 1, 2, and 3 (diluted 1:15, defined as 1 part test material + 15 parts 400 ppm AOAC synthetic hard water) each demonstrated a 99.9999% (6.04 Log) growth rate of Escherichia coli (ATCC 11229) after 30 seconds of exposure at 25 ± 1°C (25.0°C) in the presence of a 5% fetal bovine serum organic soil equivalent challenge. 10 ), >99.99999%(>7.52Log 10 ), and >99.99999% (>7.52 Log 10 ) was found to have decreased.

[0120] All three lots were also found to have a >99.99999% (>7.40 Log10) reduction in Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) after a 30-second exposure at 25 ± 1°C (25.0°C) in the presence of a 5% fetal bovine serum organic soil equivalent challenge. The results are summarized in the table shown in Figure 2. [Example]

[0121] Effectiveness of antimicrobial compositions on non-food contact surfaces The purpose of this study was to determine the antimicrobial efficacy of spray-applied formulation 1 on hard, inanimate, non-porous, non-food contact surfaces. This study was conducted in accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requirements.

[0122] A 1:15 solution (defined as 1 part test substance (formulation 1) + 15 parts 400 ppm AOAC synthetic hard water) was prepared. The first tube (10 mL) of culture broth was inoculated from a stock slant that had been transferred less than five times (less than one month old) from the original stock. This culture was designated the "initial broth suspension." From this initial broth suspension, one loopful (10 μL) of culture was transferred to 10 mL of medium a minimum of three times daily and used as inoculum after each successive day. Incubation of the appropriate growth medium was performed at 35-37°C (36.0°C) for Staphylococcus aureus (daily transfers) and at 25-32°C (29.0°C) for Enterobacter aerogenes (daily transfers) for 24 ± 2 hours.

[0123] Cultures for 48 to 54 hours (48 hours) were incubated at 35 to 37°C (36.0°C) for Staphylococcus aureus and 25 to 32°C (29.0°C) for Enterobacter aerogenes. Each culture was vortex mixed and allowed to stand for approximately 15 minutes. The top two-thirds of the culture was removed and transferred to a sterile container for use in the test. Dilutions of Enterobacter aerogenes cultures with sterile growth medium were performed by mixing 1.0 mL of the test organism suspension with 4.0 mL of sterile growth medium. Cultures were mixed thoroughly before use.

[0124] A 0.10 mL aliquot of FBS was added to 1.90 mL of each prepared culture to give a 5% fetal bovine serum organic soil equivalent load.

[0125] Sterile carriers were inoculated with 0.02 mL (20.0 μL) of culture using a calibrated pipettor, spreading the inoculum within approximately 3 mm of the edge of the carrier. The inoculated carriers were dried for 20 minutes at 35–37°C (36.0–36.1°C) and 40–41% relative humidity with the Petri dish lid slightly open. However, significant dryness was observed after the drying procedure. Therefore, a humidity chamber was used instead of a drying chamber to ensure uniform humidification conditions and eliminate the slow re-equilibration after opening the dryer.

[0126] After drying was complete, each of the five test carriers was sprayed with the test substance at staggered intervals. The carriers were sprayed six times at a distance of 6-8 inches until thoroughly wet (six sprays), and then exposed for 4 minutes at room temperature (20.0°C) and 47% relative humidity. After exposure, each carrier was transferred to 20 mL of neutralizing solution at similarly staggered intervals. The jars were vortex-mixed for 10-15 seconds to suspend any surviving organisms.

[0127] Within 30 minutes of neutralization, two aliquots of the neutralization solution (10°C) (a 1.00 mL aliquot and a 0.100 mL aliquot) were plated onto recovery agar plates.

[0128] S. aureus plates were incubated at 35–37°C (36.0°C) for 48 ± 4 hours (44.75 hours). E. aerogenes plates were incubated at 25–32°C (29.0°C) for 48 ± 4 hours (44.75 hours). After incubation, subcultures were visually counted.

[0129] Carrier population control: For the three seeded dry control carriers, the carriers were sprayed with sterile deionized water and treated as in the previous test procedure. After exposure, the carriers were neutralized as in the previous test and mixed as in the previous test. Ten-fold serial dilutions were prepared and 10 -1 ~10 -4 Two 0.100 mL aliquots of the dilutions were plated onto the appropriate agar. The plates were incubated and counted as in the test procedure. This control contained 7.5 x 10 5 The minimum geometric mean value of CFU / carrier is used as the acceptance criterion.

[0130] Carrier Sterility Control: In parallel with the test, a representative unseeded carrier was added to the neutralizer. The contents of the container were mixed and 1.00 mL was plated on the appropriate agar and incubated. The absence of growth after incubation was the pass criterion.

[0131] Neutralizer Sterility: In parallel with the test, 1.00 mL aliquots of the neutralizer were plated on appropriate agar and incubated. The absence of growth after incubation was the pass criterion.

[0132] Culture Purity: An "isolation streak plate" was performed on each organism culture and tested after incubation to confirm the presence of a pure culture. This investigation control is passed based on the presence of a pure culture exhibiting colony morphology characteristic of the test organism.

[0133] Sterility of organic soil equivalent load: In parallel with the test, the serum used in the organic soil equivalent load was cultured, incubated, and visually inspected for growth. This inspection control was deemed successful if there was no growth.

[0134] Neutralization Control: To comply with the AOAC 960.09 method, a neutralization control was performed in parallel with the previous test. The prepared test culture was serially diluted to 2 x 10 4 ~2×10 5 CFU / mL was targeted (each control process targeted a result of 10-100 CFU inoculation). Multiple organism dilutions were prepared.

[0135] Test Culture Titer (TCT): A 0.100 mL aliquot of diluted test organism was added to 20.0 mL of sterile diluent and vortex mixed. The mixture was held for a minimum of 30 minutes before being spread and inoculated using two aliquots (a 0.100 mL aliquot and a 1.00 mL aliquot) using the same method used in the test. This investigational control is passed based on growth.

[0136] Neutralization Confirmation Control Treatment (NCT): Sterile carriers (one for each test organism dilution used and one for each test substance evaluated) were sprayed with the test substance as in the study. The sterile carriers were exposed for the exposure time, and each carrier was neutralized with 20.0 mL of neutralizing agent. The jars were vortex mixed for 10-15 seconds. Within 5 minutes, a 0.100 mL aliquot of the diluted test organism was added to the neutralized contents and vortex mixed. The mixture was held for a minimum of 30 minutes, after which two aliquots (a 0.100 mL aliquot and a 1.00 mL aliquot) were used for spreading and inoculation in the same manner as in the previous study. This investigational control was performed to achieve a 1 log of the test culture titer (TCT) for at least one of the inoculated aliquots. 10 Growth within this range is considered acceptable.

[0137] Neutralizer Toxicity Treatment (NTT): A 0.100 mL aliquot of diluted test organism was added to 20.0 mL of sterile neutralizer and vortex mixed. The mixture was held for a minimum of 30 minutes, after which two aliquots (a 0.100 mL aliquot and a 1.00 mL aliquot) were spread and inoculated using the same method used in the test. This study control was initiated when at least one of the inoculated aliquots exceeded 1 log of the test culture titer (TCT). 10 Growth within this range is considered acceptable.

[0138] Inoculum Count: Each test organism was serially diluted and 0.100 mL aliquots of the appropriate dilution were plated in duplicate. Plates were incubated as in the test. There is no acceptance criteria as this control is for informational purposes.

[0139] All three tested lots of Formulation 1 were found to have a >99.999% reduction of E. aerogenes (ATCC 13048) after a 4-minute exposure in the presence of a 5% fetal bovine serum organic soil equivalent challenge when tested at room temperature (20.0°C). All three tested lots of Formulation 1 were also found to have a >99.999% reduction of S. aureus (ATCC 6538) after a 4-minute exposure in the presence of a 5% fetal bovine serum organic soil equivalent challenge when tested at room temperature (20.0°C). These results are summarized in the table shown in Figure 3.

[0140] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described as novel and useful antimicrobial compositions, it is not intended that such references be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An antibacterial composition comprising a chlorite and at least one quaternary ammonium salt as an aqueous solution, wherein the concentration of the chlorite is in the range of 2000 ppm to 8000 ppm and the concentration of the at least one quaternary ammonium salt is in the range of 5000 ppm to 10000 ppm, relative to the weight of the antibacterial composition, and the antibacterial composition is acid-free.

2. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1, wherein the concentration of chlorite ranges from 5000 ppm to 8000 ppm and the concentration of the at least one quaternary ammonium salt ranges from 6000 ppm to 10000 ppm by weight of the antimicrobial composition.

3. The quaternary ammonium salts include n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium bromide, cetalkonium chloride, cetalkonium bromide, cetylpyridinium chloride, cetylpyridinium bromide, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, cetrimonium, tetraethylammonium bromide, domiphen bromide, domiphen chloride, dophanium chloride, benzethonium chloride, benzyl (C １２～１８ 3. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1 or 2, comprising: alkyldimethylammonium chloride, benzyldodecyldimethylammonium bromide, benzyldodecyldimethylammonium chloride, dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide, hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium chloride, tetraethylammonium bromide, tetraethylammonium chloride, or any combination thereof.

4. The antimicrobial composition of claim 3, wherein the quaternary ammonium salts include n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride.

5. The alkyl group of the n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride is C １２ carbon group, C １４ carbon group, C １６ Carbon groups and C １８ The antimicrobial composition of claim 4 comprising a carbon group.

6. The alkyl group of the n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride is C １２ Carbon groups and C １４ The antimicrobial composition of claim 4 comprising a carbon group.

7. The n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride is 5% C １２ Carbon group, 60% C １４ Carbon group, 30% C １６ Carbon groups, and 5% C １８ The n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride contains 68% C １２ Carbon group and 32% C １４ The antimicrobial composition of claim 4 comprising a carbon group.

8. 8. The antimicrobial composition of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising sodium tetraborate in the range of 8000 ppm to 15000 ppm by weight of the antimicrobial composition.

9. The antimicrobial composition of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a buffering agent.

10. 10. The antimicrobial composition of claim 9, wherein the buffering agent comprises sodium bicarbonate, ferric chloride, sodium percarbonate, trisodium phosphate, sodium acetate, or any combination thereof.

11. 11. The antimicrobial composition of claim 10, wherein the buffering agent comprises sodium acetate, and the concentration of sodium acetate relative to the weight of the antimicrobial composition is in the range of 500 to 1500 ppm.

12. 12. The antimicrobial composition of claim 1, further comprising a surfactant, wherein the concentration of the surfactant relative to the weight of the antimicrobial composition is in the range of 100 ppm to 3000 ppm.

13. The antimicrobial composition of claim 12 , wherein the surfactant comprises a non-ionic surfactant.

14. 13. The antimicrobial composition of claim 12, wherein the surfactant comprises an alkoxylated nonionic surfactant.

15. 15. The antimicrobial composition of claim 14, wherein the alkoxylated nonionic surfactant comprises an ethoxylated alcohol.

16. The ethoxylated alcohol is C ９ ~C １１ 16. The antimicrobial composition of claim 15 which is an ethoxylated alcohol.

17. The antimicrobial composition of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the pH of the composition is in the range of 6.8 to 7.

2.

18. 18. The antimicrobial composition of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the antimicrobial composition has substantially 100% sporicidal efficacy against endospores of Clostridium difficile (ATCC 43598) after a contact time of up to 120 seconds when tested in accordance with ASTM E2315.

19. 1. An antimicrobial composition comprising a chlorite salt, a quaternary ammonium compound, and an ethoxylated alcohol surfactant in an aqueous solution, the antimicrobial composition comprising, by weight of the antimicrobial composition: 5000 ppm chlorite; 7000 ppm of a quaternary ammonium compound; 100 ppm of ethoxylated alcohol surfactant; and wherein the antimicrobial composition is acid-free.

20. 20. The antimicrobial composition of claim 19, wherein the quaternary ammonium compounds include n-alkyldimethylbenzyl ammonium chloride and n-alkyldimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride.

21. 21. The antimicrobial composition of claim 19 or 20, further comprising 10,000 ppm sodium tetraborate by weight of the antimicrobial composition.

22. An antibacterial composition described in any one of claims 19 to 21, further comprising sodium acetate, ferric chloride, sodium percarbonate, trisodium phosphate, or any combination thereof.

23. A method for disinfecting an object, comprising applying to the object an antimicrobial composition according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

24. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the object is a hard or soft surface.

25. 25. The method of claim 23 or 24, wherein the object is contaminated with bacteria or viruses, and the method kills at least 99.5% of the viruses or bacteria in the object.

26. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the bacteria comprises Clostridium difficile, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes, or any combination thereof.

27. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the virus comprises COVID-19, SARS, MERS, influenza, or any combination thereof.

28. A method of disinfecting produce, comprising applying to the produce a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 22.

29. 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the produce is substantially free of fungi, molds, spores, bacteria, or viruses.

30. 30. The method of claim 28 or 29, wherein the agricultural product is a cannabis plant.

31. 1. An antimicrobial hand care composition comprising, based on the weight of the antimicrobial hand care composition, sodium chlorite in an amount ranging from 0.4 to 0.5 wt. %, a quaternary ammonium salt in an amount ranging from 0.6 to 0.7 wt. %, a surfactant in an amount ranging from 0.05 to 0.1 wt. %, sodium tetraborate in an amount ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 wt. %, an emollient compound in an amount ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 wt. %, and up to 97.5 wt. % deionized water; and the antimicrobial hand care composition is acid-free.

32. 1. An antimicrobial hand care composition comprising, based on the weight of the composition, sodium chlorite in an amount ranging from 0.4 to 0.5% by weight, a quaternary ammonium salt in an amount ranging from 0.6 to 0.7% by weight, a surfactant in an amount ranging from 0.05% to 0.1% by weight, and baking soda (sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO ) in an amount ranging from 0.07% to 0.88% by weight. ３ ), iron chloride (FeCl 3 ), sodium percarbonate (Na ２ H ３ CO ６ ), trisodium phosphate (Na ３ P.O. ４ ), an emollient compound in an amount ranging from 0.1 to 0.5 wt. %, and up to 97.5 wt. % deionized water, and the antimicrobial hand care composition is acid-free.

33. 33. The antimicrobial hand care composition of claim 31 or 32, wherein the emollient compound comprises glycerin, shea butter, cocoa butter, lanolin, propylene glycol, or any combination thereof.

34. The quaternary ammonium salts include n-alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride, n-alkyldimethylethylbenzylammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium bromide, cetalkonium chloride, cetalkonium bromide, cetylpyridinium chloride, cetylpyridinium bromide, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, cetyltrimethylammonium chloride, cetrimonium, tetraethylammonium bromide, domiphen bromide, domiphen chloride, dophanium chloride, benzethonium chloride, benzyl (C １２～１８ 34. The antimicrobial hand care composition of any one of claims 31 to 33, comprising alkyldimethylammonium chloride, benzyldodecyldimethylammonium bromide, benzyldodecyldimethylammonium chloride, dodecyltrimethylammonium bromide, dodecyltrimethylammonium chloride, hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide, hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, tetradecyltrimethylammonium bromide, tetradecyltrimethylammonium chloride, tetraethylammonium bromide, tetraethylammonium chloride, or any combination thereof.

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