Glutaraldehyde cell wall activity

Mechanism of action. QACs have surfactant properties and therefore help to solubilize the cell membrane of microbial cells (Merianos, 1991). This leads to cell damage and ultimately cell death. QACs are especially effective when used in combination with other biocides that attaek the cell wall. The surfactant action exhibited by the QAC helps to make the cell wall of microbial cells more aeeessible to other biocides. The QACs facilitate penetration of biocides such as glutaraldehyde, formaldehyde, and THPS and leads to enhanced biocidal activity of these biocides. 

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