Tetranitromethane as a broad spectrum disinfectant.

Abstract

Tetranitromethane (TNM), a protein nitrating reagent, was shown to be effective in killing Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, bacterial endospores and fungi. The killing action was greater in alkaline media, where nitration was most effective. TNM has a high affinity for hydrophobic solvents, and it is suggested that the reagent killed micro-organisms by nitrating critical membrane proteins.