POLYAMINOPROPYL BIGUANIDE

DESCRIPTION
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PAPB) is a chemical compound that belongs to the biguanide family of chemicals. 
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide is primarily used as an antimicrobial agent, particularly in the formulation of disinfectants and preservatives. 
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide is known for its broad-spectrum activity, meaning it can effectively kill or inhibit the growth of various bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms.
 
Cas Number
63148-62-9.
 
SYNONYMS
Biguanide polymer,Polyhexamethylene Biguanide (PHMB), Poly(hexamethylene biguanide),Poly(hexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride)
 

Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PAPB), a compound belonging to the biguanide family, has garnered significant attention in recent decades due to its diverse applications across industries. 
As a powerful antimicrobial agent, it is primarily used in medical, pharmaceutical, and personal care formulations, where its broad-spectrum efficacy and relatively low toxicity profile have made it a preferred choice over harsher alternatives. 

PAPB is employed as a preservative, disinfectant, antiseptic, and even as a biofilm disruptor. 
Due to its widespread use, understanding its chemical nature, mechanism of action, safety profile, and regulatory status is crucial for optimizing its applications while ensuring public health and safety.
 
In this article, we explore the chemical properties, synthesis, antimicrobial activity, applications, and future prospects of PAPB, while also addressing environmental and safety concerns. We will also examine its role in the global market and the research ongoing to enhance its potential.
 
Chemical Properties and Synthesis
Chemical Structure
Polyaminopropyl Biguanide is a polymeric compound composed of repeating biguanide units. 
The molecular structure consists of a central polymer backbone formed by nitrogen and carbon atoms, with multiple side groups containing the biguanide moiety. 
The structure is primarily responsible for its antimicrobial properties, as the biguanide groups can effectively interact with microbial cell membranes.
 
Molecular Formula: C9H23N5
Molecular Weight: 211.33 g/mol (for typical polymer variants)
The polymeric structure gives PAPB its unique characteristics, particularly its solubility in both water and ethanol, and its capacity to interact with a wide range of microorganisms. 
Additionally, the polymer's size allows for the formation of viscous solutions, which is beneficial for formulations requiring thicker consistency, such as disinfectant gels or wound care products.
 
Synthesis
The synthesis of PAPB typically begins with the polymerization of biguanide derivatives. 
The process involves reacting polyamine compounds with cyanoguanidine or similar reagents. 
This reaction forms a polymer network with biguanide functional groups, resulting in a compound with enhanced stability and antimicrobial properties.
 
The general synthetic pathway may include:
 
Reaction of an alkylamine with cyanoguanidine: The alkylamine introduces the propyl group in PAPB, which is critical for its solubility and activity.
Polymerization: Through the use of catalysts, these smaller units combine into a larger polymer, enhancing the compound's efficacy as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent.
The polymerization method may be adjusted to control the molecular weight and distribution of the polymer, influencing its effectiveness in specific applications.
 
Mechanism of Action
PAPB exerts its antimicrobial action through its interaction with microbial cell membranes. 
The biguanide functional groups in the polymer are positively charged under physiological conditions, allowing them to interact with the negatively charged components of bacterial and fungal cell membranes. 
This interaction leads to several destructive effects on microbial cells:
 
Membrane Disruption: The positively charged biguanide groups bind to the negatively charged phospholipids in the microbial membrane, disrupting the structural integrity of the membrane. 
This causes an increase in membrane permeability, leading to leakage of intracellular components such as ions, proteins, and nucleic acids.
 
Cell Death: The destabilization of the membrane ultimately results in cell death. Additionally, PAPB has been shown to interfere with microbial energy metabolism by inhibiting the activity of critical enzymes in the electron transport chain.
 
Biofilm Disruption: PAPB is particularly effective in disrupting biofilms, which are clusters of microorganisms encased in an extracellular matrix. 
Biofilms present a challenge in medical and industrial settings, as they are resistant to many antimicrobial agents. 
PAPB’s ability to inhibit biofilm formation and penetration is an essential feature in its applications.
 
Overall, PAPB’s multifaceted mechanism of action makes it a potent antimicrobial agent against a wide variety of pathogens.
 
Antimicrobial Activity
PAPB is renowned for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. 
The compound is effective against a wide range of microorganisms, including:
 
Bacteria
Gram-positive bacteria: PAPB is highly effective against Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Listeria monocytogenes. 
These bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer, which PAPB disrupts.
Gram-negative bacteria: It also demonstrates efficacy against Gram-negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. 
Gram-negative bacteria possess an outer membrane that makes them more resistant to antimicrobial agents, but PAPB's action on both the outer membrane and inner cell components enables it to target these pathogens effectively.
Fungi
PAPB has shown activity against several fungal pathogens, particularly yeasts like Candida albicans and Candida glabrata, which are common causes of infections in immunocompromised individuals. 
Additionally, it is active against molds such as Aspergillus species, which can be particularly challenging in hospital settings.
 
Viruses
While PAPB is primarily noted for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, some studies suggest that it may possess antiviral activity as well. 
The viral inactivation occurs likely through disruption of the lipid membranes in enveloped viruses, similar to the action on bacterial and fungal membranes.
 
Biofilm Inhibition
Biofilms are a significant challenge in both clinical and industrial environments, where they can develop on medical devices, pipes, and other surfaces. 
PAPB has been shown to be effective in disrupting biofilms, particularly in the treatment of infections associated with medical implants or prosthetics. Its ability to break down the extracellular matrix and penetrate biofilms enhances its overall efficacy.
 
Applications in Disinfection and Hygiene Products
PAPB has a wide range of uses in various disinfectant and hygiene products, making it an essential tool in maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of infections. 
The following are some key applications:
 
Surface Disinfectants
PAPB is often used in formulations for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, particularly in environments such as hospitals, laboratories, and food processing plants. 
Its antimicrobial properties make it effective at eliminating pathogenic microorganisms from surfaces. 
These include high-touch areas, medical equipment, countertops, and other critical surfaces where contamination can spread.
 
Hand Sanitizers
With the increasing demand for hand hygiene products, PAPB has found its place as an active ingredient in alcohol-free hand sanitizers. 
Unlike alcohol-based sanitizers that may dry out the skin, PAPB-based products can offer broad-spectrum microbial protection while also being less harsh on the skin, making them suitable for frequent use.
 
Wound Care
PAPB is utilized in a variety of wound care products, such as ointments, sprays, and antiseptic creams. It helps to prevent the growth of bacteria in wounds, thereby promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of infection. 
This makes PAPB particularly valuable in both minor injuries and for patients with chronic wounds or surgical incisions.
 
Use in Medical and Pharmaceutical Fields
PAPB has found significant applications in the medical field, mainly due to its ability to kill microorganisms without harming human tissues. Its uses include:
 
Contact Lens Solutions
As a preservative and antimicrobial agent, PAPB is commonly used in contact lens solutions to prevent bacterial and fungal contamination. 
The solution ensures that the lenses remain sterile, reducing the risk of eye infections such as keratitis or conjunctivitis.
 
Topical Antiseptics
PAPB is included in various topical antiseptics, such as creams, lotions, and gels, to treat cuts, burns, and other skin conditions. 
It helps reduce the risk of bacterial infections by effectively targeting the harmful microorganisms present at the wound site.
 
Surgical Instrument Sterilization
In the medical field, sterilizing surgical instruments is crucial to avoid infections during procedures. 
PAPB-based disinfectants are commonly used in hospital settings to clean and disinfect surgical tools, ensuring that they remain free of pathogens that could cause postoperative infections.

SAFETY INFORMATION ABOUT POLYAMINOPROPYL BIGUANIDE
 
First aid measures:
Description of first aid measures:
General advice:
Consult a physician. 
Show this safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
Move out of dangerous area:
 
If inhaled:
If breathed in, move person into fresh air. 
If not breathing, give artificial respiration.
Consult a physician.
In case of skin contact:
Take off contaminated clothing and shoes immediately. 
Wash off with soap and plenty of water.
Consult a physician.
 
In case of eye contact:
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician.
Continue rinsing eyes during transport to hospital.
 
If swallowed:
Do NOT induce vomiting. 
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. 
Rinse mouth with water. 
Consult a physician.
 
Firefighting measures:
Extinguishing media:
Suitable extinguishing media:
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas
 
Advice for firefighters:
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental release measures:
Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures
Use personal protective equipment. 
 
Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas. 
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
 
Environmental precautions:
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so.
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
 
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste. 
Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.
 
Handling and storage:
Precautions for safe handling:
Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist.
 
Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. 
Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
Storage class (TRGS 510): 8A: Combustible, corrosive hazardous materials
 
Exposure controls/personal protection:
Control parameters:
Components with workplace control parameters
Contains no substances with occupational exposure limit values.
Exposure controls:
Appropriate engineering controls:
Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice.
Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.
 
Personal protective equipment:
Eye/face protection:
Tightly fitting safety goggles. 
Faceshield (8-inch minimum). 
Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
 
Skin protection:
Handle with gloves. 
Gloves must be inspected prior to use. 
Use proper glove
removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. 
Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. 
Wash and dry hands.
 
Full contact:
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
Splash contact
Material: Nitrile rubber
Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm
Break through time: 480 min
Material tested:Dermatril (KCL 740 / Aldrich Z677272, Size M)
It should not be construed as offering an approval for any specific use scenario.
 
Body Protection:
Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
Respiratory protection:
Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a fullface respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. 
 
If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. 
Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).
Control of environmental exposure
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. 
Do not let product enter drains.
Discharge into the environment must be avoided.
 
Stability and reactivity:
Chemical stability:
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Incompatible materials:
Strong oxidizing agents:
Hazardous decomposition products:
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions. 
Carbon oxides, Nitrogen oxides (NOx), Hydrogen chloride gas.
 
Disposal considerations:
Waste treatment methods:
Product:
Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. 
Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
Contaminated packaging:
Dispose of as unused product