Research on developing a new biocidal agent based on glutaraldehyde

In this study, developing a new biocidal agent is planned for reasons that at the present time biocidal agents used in leather engineering are expensive and they have limited use due to their risks for the environment and human health. For this purpose, glutaraldehyde, which is used as a high level disinfectant in different sectors, is used as a biocidal agent in leather engineering in soaking operation developing a new formulation. To increase the antimicrobial activity of glutaraldehyde, it was activated by adjusting its pH level using trisodium phosphate and borax decahydrate seperately, and then biocidal agents (BM-1 and BM-2) were produced adding active glutaraldehyde isopropanol and potasium acetate in extent levels. With this two new developed biocidal agents in different proportions (0,1% BM-1; 0,2% BM-1; 0,4% BM-1; 1% BM-1; 0,1% BM-2; 1% BM-2), a commertial bactericide and a control group, eight leather groups were created and soaking operation was carried out in a laboratory conditions. Taking samples from soaking float in the beginning and end of soaking, bacteria counting was done using pour plate method. Based on the results of this counting, biocidal agents were applied on the basis of lot in adequate proportions and their effects on bacteries growing in soaking operation was searched. Then, treatment of leather was continued and leather was treated. Lastly, leather physical tests were applied to finished leathers. According to data, antimicrobial activation of newly produced biocidal agents may be caunted as adequate. Cost calculation of chemicals used BM-1 and BM-2, showes these two agents to be quite economic, too.