EVALUATION OF A SILANE QUATERNARY AMMONIUM SALT AS AN ANTIMICROBIAL SURFACE TREATMENT

Abstract

As humans explore further into space, biocontamination of other planets remains a concern. Another issue is the protection of crew health and the prevention of microbe-induced sickness. A silane quaternary ammonium salt (QAS; ÆGIS Microbe Shield TM) was applied to aluminum coupons and tested against Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus epidermidis to determine its value as an antimicrobial surface shield. The bacteria tested are commonly associated with spacecraft assembly, space travel and the human body. The QAS was initially effective as an antimicrobial agent but gradually lost its activity through repeated use, a result contrary to company claims.