The disinfectant action of glycerol in varying concentrations

Abstract

Previous studies of the disinfectant action of glycerol have for the most part been conducted in relation to its supposed destructive action on invading organisms in vaccine virus. M. J. Rosenau made an exhaustive investigation of the subject in 1903 and concluded that “Glycerol has distinct but very feeble germicidal and antiseptic properties.” F. R. Blaxall reported a similar study in 1902-3. his work including only one concentration of glycerol, 50 per cent. More recently G. Mathers and G. H. Weaver have noted the remarkable viability (14 to 30 days) of various micrococci and streptococci in 50 per cent. glycerol suspension, and the persistence of the organisms for 90 days on blood agar lightly covered with 50 per cent. glycerol.

Our own work was undertaken in connection with the study of the specific effects of salt solutions upon the permeability of bacterial cells, and in connection with this investigation the effect of glycerol in concentrations varying from 9.2 per cent. to 100 per cent. has been determined, Bacillus coli being the test organism.

The glycerol used was an analyzed commercial preparation (Merck) with maximum limits of foreign substances .1814 per cent. The analysis showed absence of carbonizable matters, and heavy metals. Pure, ammonia free water was used in making solutions, and for the controls.

Glycerol solutions of varying concelitrations (9.2, 27.6, 46.0, 64.4, 82.8, 100 per cent.) were made up in 50 and 100 c.c. portions. Young cultures of B. coli (16-20 hours) were washed from agar slants with 2-3 c.c. of the test solution. One c.c. of this suspension was added to the bottles of the solution, and after dilution, agar plates were made. The solutions were incubated at 37°, one c.c. portions being removed at definite time intervals and plated after dilution.