Photo-fenton reagent for residential surface disinfection

Overview

This solution is a residential disinfection technology based on the photo-Fenton reaction, an advanced oxidation process that produces hydroxyl radicals when hydrogen peroxide reacts with iron ions. Because hydroxyl radicals are non-selective oxidizers, they effectively destroy a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, on household surfaces such as countertops, dishes, tables, and clothing. The technology is delivered through a dual-chamber spray bottle that keeps the two aqueous solutions separate until the moment of use, then mixes them into a single stream at the nozzle to generate hydroxyl radicals on contact.

The use of light, whether natural daylight or ambient indoor lighting, enhances the reactivity and longevity of the hydroxyl radicals, extending the disinfecting action beyond what conventional Fenton chemistry provides. This approach offers a chemical alternative to traditional household disinfectants, with potential applications in homes, healthcare settings, schools, and other environments where rapid, broad-spectrum surface disinfection is desired.

Technical specifications

Core chemistry:

• Two-component system combining dilute hydrogen peroxide with an iron-ion solution at the point of use
• Generates hydroxyl radicals through the photo-Fenton reaction
• Light exposure enhances radical production and extends reactive lifetime
• Non-selective oxidation mechanism targets bacteria, viruses, and other organic contaminants

Delivery system:

• Dual-chamber spray bottle design keeps solutions isolated until activation
• Mixing occurs at the nozzle to produce a single combined spray stream
• Solutions must remain separated during storage to prevent premature reaction

Research parameters under investigation:

• Optimum concentrations and ratios of iron and hydrogen peroxide solutions
• Contact time required to achieve 99.99% reduction of bacteria on representative household surfaces
• Performance across varying environmental conditions, including temperature and humidity
• Effects of particulate matter or soil on disinfection efficiency
• Impact on surface appearance after treatment

Technology readiness level

This technology is at an early research and concept-validation stage. The underlying photo-Fenton chemistry is well established in the peer-reviewed literature, with thousands of publications and approximately 70 studies specifically examining Fenton reagent as a disinfectant, primarily for water treatment. However, no commercial product based on this process for residential surface disinfection has been identified.

The next phase of development involves designing or sourcing an appropriate dual-chamber spray bottle, optimizing solution concentrations and contact times on representative household surfaces, and validating performance under varied environmental conditions. Once these laboratory validations are complete, the technology will be positioned for prototype development and field testing in real-world residential settings.