Chlorhexidine Interaction with Microcrystalline Cellulose
type: CreativeWork
description: Chlorhexidine, widely used as a disinfectant and antiseptic in medical and dental applications, reacts with sodium hypochlorite, a common cleanser and bleach, forming potentially toxic byproducts. This reaction is particularly concerning in both medical settings and everyday laundering, where chlorhexidine-treated fabrics washed with bleach develop permanent stains due to chemical interactions with cellulose fibers. Previous research has identified compounds such as Parachloroaniline (PCA), which contribute to both toxicity and fiber degradation. This study aims to further analyze the breakdown products of chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). By examining microcrystalline cellulose as a model, we will investigate the mechanisms of staining and toxicity. Identifying these reaction products will improve our understanding of chlorhexidine’s interactions with bleach and textiles, guiding safer use in healthcare and environmental settings.
abstract: Chlorhexidine, widely used as a disinfectant and antiseptic in medical and dental applications, reacts with sodium hypochlorite, a common cleanser and bleach, forming potentially toxic byproducts. This reaction is particularly concerning in both medical settings and everyday laundering, where chlorhexidine-treated fabrics washed with bleach develop permanent stains due to chemical interactions with cellulose fibers. Previous research has identified compounds such as Parachloroaniline (PCA), which contribute to both toxicity and fiber degradation. This study aims to further analyze the breakdown products of chlorhexidine and sodium hypochlorite using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). By examining microcrystalline cellulose as a model, we will investigate the mechanisms of staining and toxicity. Identifying these reaction products will improve our understanding of chlorhexidine’s interactions with bleach and textiles, guiding safer use in healthcare and environmental settings.
author: Joshi, Utsav
language: English
keywords: Chemistry, Organic, Chlorhexidine, Cellulose, Stain, Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
date published: 2025-12
date modified: 2026-07-24T05:05:11Z
provider: Texas Woman's University
publisher: Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations
type: WebPage
source organization: Texas Woman's University

PropertyValue
property ID: Handle
value: https://hdl.handle.net/11274/17405