Protectol® DA (2,4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol or DCBA) is a broad spectrum

antifungal preservative for use in a wide variety of consumer products. It

is an extremely safe and stable molecule which can be readily incorpo-

rated into most formulation types for use as a preservative or as an active

ingredient.

The broad spectrum efficacy of Protectol® DA has been well

demonstrated in many different applications. As a fungicidal preservative

it is used in personal care, pharmaceutical and household products; as a

fungicidal active agent in foot creams and lotions; and as a bactericidal

active agent in lozenges, mouthwash formulations and skin antiseptics.

Antimicrobial Activity

Protectol® DA is active against a broad range of microorganisms, and

has greatest value against fungi. At concentrations ranging from 100ppm

to 500ppm, Protectol® DA is effective in inhibiting the growth of yeasts,

moulds and dermatophytic fungi. Bacteria are inhibited by

concentrations ranging from 500ppm to 2000ppm (see Table 1). Levels

above 2000ppm have been shown to have a rapid lethal effect on certain

microorganisms in their vegetative state, where kill has been achieved

within 30 seconds of contact time (see Table 2). Studies have also been

carried out to determine the effect of combining Protectol® DA with

Protectol^® BN (2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol). It was found that this

combination was effective against a wide range of microorganisms and

that lower concentrations of each were required when used in

combination than those when they were used alone (see Table 3).

Microbial resistance against Protectol® DA has not been encountered in

over 30 years of use.