Article Synopsis
This article looks at the chemical differences between water (H20) and hydrogen peroxide (H202). While their properties are very different, they are both essential in a major part of Tecomak Environmental Services’ work – namely H202 decontamination.
There’s also a brief look at the role water plays in other aspects of Tecomak’s operations.
This article is a will take between three and four minutes to read.
One is a stable chemical compound which is essential for all forms of life; the other is a highly reactive, unstable oxidizing agent used as a disinfectant and bleach, and which is capable of causing tissue damage.
Here we explain the structural differences between water (H20) and hydrogen peroxide (H202) and how they are both essential for our work.
H202 Decontamination from Tecomak Enviromental Services
At Tecomak Environmental Services we offer ionised hydrogen peroxide decontamination for our clients, whether they are in the healthcare, scientific research or pharmaceutical production sectors. For more information call us on 01732 852250.
The Chemical Structure of Water
Water consists of two hydrogen atoms bonded to one oxygen atom, forming a V-shaped molecular structure that is stable under normal conditions. It is neutral (neither an acid or an alkali) with no inherent oxidising capabilities.
The human body is made up of around 60% water, and it’s essential for regulating your body temperature, lubricating your joints and protecting your tissues. It’s also vital for your mental health – around three-quarters of the brain consists of H20. However, the body can’t store water, so it is vital to stay well hydrated.
And water isn’t harmful to your health in any way – unless it is contaminated, or if you drink too much in a very short space of time (there is a condition known as water intoxication – but this is extremely rare).
The Chemical Structure of Hydrogen Peroxide
Compared to water, hydrogen peroxide (pictured) has an additional oxygen atom connected by a single bond to its original structure. It is a weak acid and possesses strong oxidising properties due to its ability to release reactive oxygen species.
This makes H2O2 useful in various applications such as disinfection and bleaching, but it also means it can be hazardous if it is mishandled.
Where H20 and H202 Combine
Hydrogen and peroxide are both integral to our H202 decontamination services. When we disinfect cleanrooms and other sensitive environments, we use the Devea Phileas® range of decontamination devices (although we can still offer formaldehyde decontamination if the client requests it).
This is because the units – from the Phileas® 15 right through to the Phileas® 285 – diffuse a fine spray or mist throughout the target area. Not only is this much quicker than other decontamination methods, it is much safer too. The units can all be programmed remotely so the operator doesn’t need to be in the area being decontaminated, reducing the risk of exposure.
The positively-charged or ionised H202 particles are automatically attracted to all surfaces – even hard-to-reach ones – and destroy any harmful pathogens on contact. And, crucially, the only residues left at the end of the cycle are water and oxygen, both of which are harmless.
How Tecomak Uses Water in Other Operations
Water isn’t just a vital part of our H202 decontamination services; we use it in many other aspects of our work too. For instance, during our airflow visualisation work (usually in cleanroom testing), we use pharmaceutical-grade smoke, which is created using purified water, to visualise airflow patterns. This ensures that controlled environments meet safety and performance standards.
And more generally, during any contamination control operations, water is a key element in maintaining hygienic environments. Monitoring water for contaminants (such as bacteria, fungi, or spores) is also a crucial part of our validation and testing services in sensitive environments.
Devea Phileas® Units from Tecomak Environmental Services
If you would like to know more about any of the devices in our Devea Phileas® range, follow this link. We can either decontaminate your premises for you – whether it’s a cleanroom, a research lab or a production facility – or we can train your staff to use any of the products we offer so you can keep the work ‘in-house’.
FAQS:
Q: How do Devea Phileas® devices ionise the hydrogen peroxide particles?
A: During the Devea Phileas® operating process, hydrogen peroxide is converted into a fine, dry, and electrically charged mist (ionised) using a centrifugation nebulising system combined with a high-speed rotating disk.
Q: How effective is the ionised hydrogen peroxide process?
A: It is highly effective, achieving a six-log reduction in microbial contaminants (a 99.9999% reduction), including the so-called ‘superbugs’ MRSA and C. Difficile.
Q: Does Tecomak provide validation that the decontamination process worked?
A: Yes, we offer validation services using chemical and biological indicators (4-log, 5-log, and 6-log) to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Q: Can hydrogen peroxide decontaminate complex or sensitive equipment?
A: Yes. Because it is a dry fog, it penetrates inaccessible areas and can be used on sensitive electronic devices, such as lab equipment and safety cabinets, without causing any damage.
