Antimicrobial activity of some N-substituted amides of long-chain fatty acids

Seventy-three N,N-disubstituted amides of long-chain, principally C(18), fatty acids were screened for antimicrobial activity against bacteria, yeasts, and molds. Amides containing an epoxy group exhibit a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activity which is further enhanced by unsaturation. Mono-unsaturation alone does not contribute a broad level of activity to the N,N-disubstituted amides of the C(18) fatty acids.