Drain Sanitation Delivers Peace of Mind

Another Cleaning Method

Use of a foaming hydrogen peroxide/quat hybrid is considered by many to be the most effective program for removing biofilms from drains. This method, known commercially as PerQuat technology, uses powerful chemicals to clean and sanitize the drains and their underground pipe-lines in one simple step.

PerQuat technology is based on a powerful chemistry between the negatively charged perhydroxide ion and the positively charged quaternary ammonium compound. Combined in one product, the two molecules form an intimate ion pair that results in a hydrogen peroxide and quat hybrid. This chemistry has a unique cleaning ability and antimicrobial efficacy against a wide range of microorganisms, allowing it to be used in a variety of industrial and public health environments. In fact, the chemistry is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency for the removal of biofilm from drain systems, whereas typical drain cleaners and sanitizers, including enzymatic cleaners, drain openers, or quat-based sanitizers, are not. In addition, these other products are ineffective against the pathogens found in biofilms.

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PerQuat technology, represented by the BDQ bubbles, works to attack microorganisms embedded in biofilms.

In tests conducted by the National Food Processors Association, bacteria on stainless steel chips survived after the chips were immersed in a variety of sanitizers for five minutes: hot water at 180°F; chlorine at 20, 50, and 200 parts per million (ppm); and iodine at 25 ppm. The only true germicide tested was a hydrogen peroxide/quat-based chemistry, which was found to be effective against biofilms at three percent and six percent solutions.¹

Drain cleaning products based on this chemistry are easy to use and can be poured or preferably foamed into the drains using a simple foaming unit that forces the product into the underground drain pipeline via a foaming attachment or assembly that can be attached to the foaming unit with a quick connection. The foam travels as far as desired in the drainpipes, depending on drain system conditions.

As it travels, the foam covers all drain system surfaces, offering full 360-degree coverage. It penetrates and breaks down the biofilms from the surfaces of the drain, including the ceiling of the underground drainpipes. While breaking down the biofilm, it destroys microbial cells embedded in the biofilm. Because no scrubbing is required in the use of this technology, problems associated with the previously discussed method are avoided.

The hydrogen peroxide/quat hybrid chemistry is free of phosphates, acids, and chlorine and helps to control and eliminate fruit flies from the drains. Products that utilize this technology are also economical and efficient. It takes only 20 to 30 seconds to foam each drain, thus reducing the amount of time and labor required to execute a complete and effective drain care program. ■

Makdesi is corporate senior microbiologist at Zep Inc.; reach him at (404) 352-1680. For more information on eliminating pathogenic microorganisms and biofilms in food preparation areas, visit www.biofilmdrainpurge.com.

Reference

1. Felix CW. Sanitizers fail to kill bacteria in biofilms. Food Prot Rep. 1991;7(5):6.