Iodophor

Iodophores (from Greek Phoros = supporting) are stable inclusion compounds, which are formed from macromolecules with elemental iodine.

Suitable support materials are polycarboxylic acids, surfactants or polymers are used, the 0.5 - included complexed 3% iodine. Since the iodine is in contrast to iodine tinctures tightly bound to iodophores distinguished by the fact that they do not stain the skin, have a weaker iodine odor and are less corrosive and toxic. Iodophores found in disinfectants, antiseptics and fungicides use.

Examples of iodophores are:

• The polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone (known as " PVP" or " povidone " ) binds iodine very strong. The 10% iodine complex " PVP - iodine " is very slightly soluble in water, whereas elemental iodine is insoluble in water. Compared with classical iodine tincture to PVP - iodine has prevailed in the medical treatment of wounds. Well-known trade names are for example Braunol ®, Betaisodona ® and Mercuchrom ® - iodine solution.

• The polysaccharide starch iodine also binds very strongly. However, a complex of this compound contains only a trace of iodine, and dissolves in water with blue color characteristic, which is used for detection of iodine -starch reaction.

• Recently, a complex of methyl cellulose and iodoform was discovered. The approximately 5% iodoformhaltige complex is moderately soluble in water, while iodoform is water insoluble.