Alternative non-isothiazolinone preservative system for all-purpose cleaners
Research initiative to identify and validate alternative preservatives to replace benzisothiazolinone in all-purpose cleaner (APC) formulations. Seventeen candidate compounds are being screened for compatibility, performance, and safety using a standardized base formulation, addressing regulatory and consumer concerns associated with isothiazolinone-based preservatives.
Overview
This research addresses the need for effective alternative preservatives in all-purpose cleaner (APC) formulations, targeting the replacement of benzisothiazolinone, a widely used isothiazolinone-class preservative associated with regulatory scrutiny and consumer sensitivity concerns. The initiative evaluates seventeen candidate compounds for their ability to preserve APC products while maintaining desired performance and safety characteristics. By systematically testing each candidate within a standardized base formulation, the research aims to identify one or more viable alternatives that can be adopted by cleaning product manufacturers seeking to reformulate away from isothiazolinone-based systems.
Technical specifications
Candidate preservatives under evaluation:
- Citric acid
- Benzyl alcohol
- Benzyl benzoate
- Phenoxyethanol
- Methylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Potassium sorbate
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium citrate
- Chlorhexidine
- Benzalkonium chloride
- Sorbic acid
- Triclosan
- Sodium metabisulfite
- Povidone-iodine
- Sodium bisulfite
- Isobutylparaben
- Zinc pyrithione
Evaluation parameters:
- Viscosity measurements to confirm rheological compatibility with the base formulation
- Turbidity determination to assess optical clarity
- Particle-size distribution analysis
- Emulsification ability for fatty soils
- Surface tension measurements
- Contact angle analysis for surface wetting behavior
- Foaming properties evaluation
- Irritant potential assessment using the Zein Value (ZV) method
Approach: Each candidate is tested individually within a standard APC base composition drawn from published literature, enabling direct comparison of preservative effects on formulation performance and safety.
Technology readiness level
This research is at an early-to-mid stage of development. The candidate preservatives have been identified based on a review of available literature and patents, but comprehensive performance and safety validation within a standardized APC formulation has not yet been completed. Future work will systematically evaluate each compound against the parameters listed above. The current effort focuses on screening and comparative assessment rather than commercial-scale validation. Additional studies may be required to confirm long-term stability, microbial efficacy, and regulatory acceptability before commercial deployment.
About Jiangnan University
Jiangnan University is a comprehensive public research university in Wuxi, China, known for a research-driven, industry-engaged character. State-level research platforms are co-located with pilot-scale facilities that support process development and scale-up, enabling direct collaboration with enterprises on applied R&D and technical services. A university science park, joint research institutes with regional governments, and a National Technology Transfer Center provide structured on-ramps for co-development, sponsored research, and rapid deployment. Research is supported by competitive national and provincial programs, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Ministry of Science and Technology’s National Key R&D Program. Clinical partners through the university’s affiliated hospital extend capabilities into translational and human-centered studies.
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