Safeguarding Surfaces: How VersaHOCl® Stacks Up Against Bleach and Peracetic Acid

In cleanroom environments, the disinfectants you choose can make or break your facility’s long-term performance. While bleach and peracetic acid-based products are widely used for their antimicrobial strength, they often come with a hidden cost: corrosion, rusting, and surface degradation that compromise equipment and increase maintenance demands.

Berkshire’s recent Surface Compatibility Study set out to compare the impact of three disinfectants—VersaHOCI®, bleach (0.525% sodium hypochlorite), and a peracetic acid/hydrogen peroxide blend—on common cleanroom metals: galvanized steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. The study simulated both extreme exposure (24-hour soak) and real-world use (150 spray-wipe cycles) to assess how each product interacts with these sensitive surfaces.

The results were striking. VersaHOCl® consistently outperformed the alternatives:

• • On galvanized steel, VersaHOCl® caused only slight discoloration, while bleach led to corrosion and peracetic acid caused heavy rusting.
  • On stainless steel, VersaHOCl® showed no damage. Bleach caused rouging, and peracetic acid had minimal effect.
  • On aluminum, VersaHOCI® left the surface untouched. Bleach caused significant corrosion, and peracetic acid led to severe pitting and warping.

These findings highlight VersaHOCl®’s unique ability to deliver powerful disinfection without compromising surface integrity. Rated “Excellent” across all materials and test conditions, VersaHOCI® is a safer, more consistent choice for facilities looking to protect their infrastructure while maintaining high hygiene standards.

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