Two new water-insoluble polymeric biocides have been synthesized: poly[3-ch
loro-2,2,5,5-tetramethyl-1-(4'-vinylbenzyl)imidazolidin-4-one] (Poly-p-VBD-
Cl) and poly[acrylonitrile-co-(1,3-dichloro-5-methyl-5-(4'-vinylbenzyl)barb
ituric acid)] (Poly-AN-Barb-Cl). The polymer and copolymer were tested for
longevity of the bactericidal activity against; Staphylococcus aureus. Not
only did this test reveal significant bactericidal activity by these materi
als, but also good stability in dry storage. These new biocidal polymers co
uld be used in cartridge filters for the disinfection of recreational and p
otable water.