Frequently asked question
What is Virkon and how to use it?
Virkon is a multi-purpose disinfectant. It contains potassium hydrogen sulfate, sodium dodecyl-benzenesulfonate, sulfamic acid, and inorganic buffers.
It is intended for the disinfection of surfaces and equipment by soaking as well as for footbaths.
This product has a broad spectrum of activity against viruses, certain fungi and bacteria.
Fashion action
The reaction produced by the elements of the disinfectant is a cycle based on redox reactions. The KMPS complex (Oxone or Monopersulfate triple salt) is a powerful oxidizing agent which acts on the sodium chloride present in the formulation when the Virkon powder is diluted in water with the release of free oxidizing radicals (Cl°, OH° and 0°).
Advantages
This reaction allows the formation of the most deleterious radical forms for the membranes, enzymes and genome of organisms Prokaryotes. The production of these radicals is massive and homogeneous, like an oxidation battery. Their lifespan is short.
They degrade into H2O and O2 and do not cause tissue accumulation of residues and do not induce ecotoxicity. Bacterial resistance to the chemical species released by Virkon has not been demonstrated, unlike that observed with conventional disinfectants (quaternary ammoniums/aldehydes).
Biodegradability
Virkon is mainly made up of inorganic salts. Oxone (KMPS) degrades into common and natural inorganic ions such as sulfate, carbonate, potassium and hydrogen ions. The surfactant is rapidly biodegradable (EEC Directive 73/404) and gives 90% biodegradability under the conditions of the OECD test (CEE/73/405).
Once applied and diluted in drain water, Virkon does not hinder the activity of micro-organisms present in the sludge of sewage treatment plants and is not toxic to earthworms. Virkon is not classified R50 (Dangerous for the environment) in accordance with the European standard procedure for the classification and labeling of chemical substances.
Methods
The application of Virkon is always carried out in the absence of animals.
Spraying surfaces
Spray all surfaces to be cleaned and disinfected with the 1% Virkon solution (10 g for 1 liter of water). The spraying must be uniform and must not cause runoff. The recommended dose is 400 mL / m2.
Once disinfected, surfaces in contact with animals (tanks, windows) must be thoroughly rinsed under running water.
Soaking of materials
The equipment must be completely immersed in an active 1% solution of Virkon (pink coloring) for 10 minutes (bring to 30 minutes for surfaces
After soaking the equipment must be carefully rinsed under running water over its entire surface.
Pediluves
Change the 1% Virkon disinfectant solution every 5 days or as soon as the pink color disappears (pink colored indicator indicating disinfectant effectiveness).
Storage
Store the 1% Virkon solution in clean plastic containers at room temperature under cover from direct sunlight.
Do not expose the solution to cold.
Change the solution after the pink color disappears or 7 days after the date of preparation (solubilization).
Dangers
In humans, the concentrated powder is irritating to the skin, eyes and inhalation of dust.
In a 1% solution, Virkon is not irritating to the skin or eyes.
For more information on first aid, toxicity, ecotoxicity, handling, consult the Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
Composition differences in the range
SubstanceCAS No.Virkon Aquatic (USA)Virkon-S (FR)Pentapotassium bis(peroxymonosulfate)bis(sulfate) (Oxone)70693-62-820-50%30-50%Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate25155-30-010-25%Benzenesulfonic acid, C10-13 alkyl derivatives, sodium salts68411-30-310-20%Malic acid (Butanedioic acid, 2-hydroxy-)6915-15-7<10%1-10%Acid sulphonamide5329-14-6<5%2.5-10%Dipotassium peroxodisulfate7727-21-1<5%0.1-1%Sodium toluenesulfonate12068-03-01-10%Sodium chloride7647-14-5<5%Potassium hydrogen sulphate7646-93-7<5%1-3%Dipotassium disulphate7790-62-7<5%1-3%Dipentene138-86-30.1-0.25%