The biocidal polymers poly[1,3-dichloro-5-methyl-5-(4‘-vinylphenyl)hydantoin] and poly[1,3-dibromo-5-methyl-5-(4‘-vinylphenyl)hydantoin] and the monochlorinated derivative have been
prepared as insoluble porous beads. Halogen stability, rechargeability, and efficacy against
pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli O157:H7, MS2 virus, and poliovirus) in a
water filtration application have been evaluated. While the polymers previously prepared in
powdered granular solid form were effective against a wide variety of pathogens in contact times
of a few seconds, the flow rates of water through cartridge filters containing them were often
diminished because of clogging problems. Furthermore, the fine particles could be partially
aerosolized in a manufacturing facility, thus causing a potential hazard for workers in the facility.
The porous beads, prepared entirely by heterogeneous reactions, overcome these limitations
while maintaining outstanding biocidal efficacies. The chlorinated beads have the potential to
be used for disinfecting potable water in remote areas. The brominated beads are being evaluated
as biocides for use in recirculating water applications such as for spas.
It has been demonstrated that the biocidal polymers poly-1,3-dichloro-5-methyl-5-(4‘-vinylphenyl)hydantoin and the alkali metal salt and protonated forms of its monochlorinated derivative can
be prepared as insoluble porous beads by careful control of the pH in the chlorination step.
While the dichloro derivative will be primarily useful in flowing water disinfection applications,
particularly for potable water and recreational water, the monochloro compounds will find use
in applications in which disinfection contact time is of lesser importance, such as for recirculating
water treatment and odor control. Biocidal efficacy and chlorine stability data have been
presented, and the potential use patterns of the several derivatives have been discussed.
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