Strong bactericidal synergy between peracetic acid and silver-exchanged zeolites

When peracetic acid (PAA) was adsorbed in the micropores of a Ag-containing zeolite (ZSM5) the bactericidal efficiency against Staphylococcus aureus increased by several orders of magnitude compared to the effect of either agent. Peracetic acid was effective against the exopolysaccharide matrix which constitutes the biofilm, increasing bacterial exposure to silver ions.

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► Synergistic bactericidal effect between silver and peracetic acid is demonstrated.
► Peracetic acid hinders biofilm formation and increases the bioavailability of Ag+.
► This combination shows ⩾3 orders of magnitude higher bactericidal efficiency.