Inactivation of airborne pathogen surrogates by triethylene glycol

Area of Science:

• Environmental microbiology
• Public health
• Chemical engineering

Background:

• Airborne transmission is a significant factor in infectious disease spread, as highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Sustainable mitigation strategies are crucial for controlling airborne pathogens.
• Triethylene glycol (TEG) has demonstrated microbicidal capabilities and is a potential airborne pathogen mitigation agent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of aerosolized TEG for decontaminating enclosed spaces.
• To determine the safety and effectiveness of TEG at specific concentrations.
• To propose improved testing protocols for airborne antimicrobial interventions.

Main Methods:

• Aerosolization of TEG using Grignard Pure Technology.
• Exposure of airborne microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, mycobacteria surrogates) to aerosolized TEG.
• Measurement of viable microorganism reduction over time at a TEG concentration of ~0.7 mg/m³.
• Development of a surrogate microorganism selection approach for testing.

Main Results:

• A 2 to 4.5 net log reduction in viable airborne microorganisms within 30-60 minutes.
• Effective inactivation at TEG concentrations (~0.7 mg/m³) considered safe for humans.
• Demonstrated that aerosol-based testing is more relevant for indoor usage than surface-based assays.

Conclusions:

• Aerosolized TEG is a highly effective antimicrobial agent against a broad spectrum of airborne pathogens.
• The testing methodology should align with the intended application for accurate efficacy assessment.
• TEG offers a promising, safe, and sustainable intervention for controlling airborne infectious disease transmission.