Propan-1-ol

Propan-1-ol has sufficient bactericidal activity at 60% in 15 s and yeasticidal activity at 85% in 30 s. Some food-associated fungi require at least a 5 min exposure time. Mycobactericidal activity of propan-1-ol has not been reported. The antimicrobial effect of propan-1-ol is explained by the non-specific denaturation of proteins and deformation of membranes. No specific cellular defence mechanisms against propan-1-ol have been described. Biofilm development of C. albicans can be inhibited by 2% propan-1-ol. The effect of propan-1-ol at use concentrations on biofilm development and fixation is unknown. The removal of a S. epidermidis biofilm by 60% propan-1-ol is low. High MIC values indicating tolerance to propan-1-ol have so far not been reported. Exposure to 0.5–4% propan-1-ol may increase biofilm formation in S. epidermidis. Propan-1-ol at 0.2–2% may increase surface attachment in P. aeruginosa. No propan-1-ol-resistant isolates have been described with an insufficient efficacy in suspension tests or tests under practical conditions or with a contamination of disinfectants. The overall probability of resistance to propan-1-ol of practical relevance is very low in the absence of biofilm.