What are spores?
Spores are microscopically small permanent forms of bacteria. Bacteria-forming spores (so-called endospores), such as those of Bacillus and Clostridium species, develop under unfavorable conditions such as heat, cold, dehydration and lack of food to ensure the survival of the bacteria. They are often found in soil, water and the intestines of animals and humans. These spores consist of a robust outer shell (exosporium), a thick protective layer (cortex) and a central core. They are characterized by extreme resilience and longevity, as they can survive for years in a dormant state and become active under favourable conditions. These properties pose a particular challenge for disinfection.
Clostridium difficile
Our positive sporicide test is particularly important in the fight against Clostridium difficile, a gram-positive, anaerobic, spore-forming bacterium. Clostridium difficile is characterized by a thick cell wall, which turns purple in the Gram stain, and grows exclusively in the absence of oxygen. It forms heat- and chemical-resistant spores and produces toxins (toxin A and toxin B) that cause diarrhea and intestinal inflammation (colitis). It is often responsible for nosocomial infections, which occur mainly in hospitals and care facilities and are usually transmitted fecal-orally through contaminated surfaces, hands or medical equipment.
Clostridium difficile can occur particularly after antibiotic therapy that disrupts the normal intestinal flora. In severe cases, specific antibiotics such as metronidazole or vancomycin or even stool transplants are required. Our disinfectant solutions now offer an effective weapon against this dangerous bacterium by destroying the resistant spores and thus preventing the spread and infection.
Conventional methods for spore control
Compared to our disinfectant solutions, all conventional methods of spore control (disinfection and sterilization) have considerable disadvantages:
- Autoclaving with steam under pressure at 121°C for 15-20 minutes is a very effective sterilization method against all types of spores, but is not suitable for heat-sensitive materials.
- Chemical disinfectants such as peracetic acid, formaldehyde and bleach are flexible and effective, but require safety precautions, a longer exposure time and can damage materials.
- Ionizing radiation (gamma or X-rays) is highly effective, even in hard-to-reach areas, but is expensive and requires special equipment.
- UV radiation uses ultraviolet light for disinfection, is easy to use and leaves no residue. However, its effectiveness is significantly impaired by shadow areas, changing distances, irregular surfaces and speeds. It is also time-consuming and costly to use and poses risks to eyes and skin.
- Low-temperature plasma uses ionized gases and is gentle on heat-sensitive materials, but is expensive and requires special equipment.
Conclusion
With the successful classification of our disinfectant solutions as sporicidal, we are setting new standards in hygiene. Our products not only offer comprehensive protection against bacterial, viral and fungal pathogens, but also eliminate stubborn bacterial spores that often cannot be completely destroyed using conventional methods. This is particularly important in sensitive areas such as medicine and the food industry, where spores can pose a considerable risk. Our sporicidal disinfectants are characterized by their environmental compatibility and ease of use. They leave no harmful residues and require no special precautions, making them a practical and safe choice for comprehensive infection control. We are proud to be able to make an important contribution to improving hygiene and safety in various areas of application.