dilutioncalculator.co.uk§ Verified 20 Jun 2026 · Reviewed by A. Hargreaves, MChem (Hons)

Virkon S vs Trigene Advance

Two broad-spectrum disinfectants used in veterinary, laboratory and clinical settings. Virkon is a powder oxidiser; Trigene is a liquid QAC blend. They are very different chemistries.

§ 1Working dilution

Virkon S
1 % w/v
10 g powder per 1 L water
Dettol Trigene Advance
1:100
1 % v/v in 1 L water

§ 2Spectrum at working strength

  • Virkon S · broad virucidal at 1 %, including non-enveloped viruses (parvovirus, FMDV). Oxidative chemistry.
  • Trigene Advance · BS EN 14476 virucidal at 1:100. QAC plus biguanide chemistry. Better surfactant action.

§ 3Stability once mixed

  • Virkon S · pink colour for ~7 days; loses activity as colour fades.
  • Trigene Advance · diluted solutions usable for 24 hours in a clean bucket.

§ 4Preferred setting

  • Veterinary clinic, kennels, farm boot dip · Virkon S.
  • Care-home and hospital surface routine · Trigene Advance.
  • Lab benchtop · either; Virkon for outbreak, Trigene for routine.

Pricing comparison is omitted; both products are usually quoted via trade accounts and street prices vary. Re-check current SDS for any change to BS EN claim list.

§ 5Related