Tetraglycine hydroperiodide is an iodine-containing chemical, used for water purification. Tetraglycine hydroperiodide is marketed in tablets; each tablet effectively disinfects 1 liter of clear water or 0.5 liter of tainted water by releasing approximately 8 mg free iodine. It requires approximately 30 minutes to inactivate target microorganisms and make water bacteriologically suitable for drinking. To remove iodine taste, a vitamin C pill is added to the kit.

Magnesium diamide is used as a chemical intermediate. Magnesium diamide is spontaneously combustible. It is toxic by inhalation. Skin or eye contact may cause severe burns.

Cetrimide is a quaternary ammonium compound. Cetrimide was first introduced as a combined cleanser and skin antiseptic by Barnes (1942). Cetrimide combines excellent detergent properties and minimal toxicity with a useful antiseptic action. Cetrimide affects membrane permeability allowing ‘leaking’ of essential cell constituents leading to cell death. This medication is a skin antiseptic and disinfectant prescribed for seborrhoeic dermatitis and wound cleansing. The cream has a bactericidal activity against gram-positive bacteria and incompatible with soaps and other anionic surfactants.