As an alternative, acetyl chloride and acetic anhydride can be used to generate a solution of the acid with lower water content.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency first registered peracetic acid as an antimicrobial in 1986 for indoor use on hard surfaces.
Peracetic acid can be used as a cooling tower water disinfectant, where it prevents biofilm formation and effectively controls Legionella bacteria.
[9] Decontamination kits for cleaning fentanyl analogues from surfaces (as used by many police forces, amongst others) often contain solid peracetyl borate, which mixes with water to produce peracetic acid.
[11] Peracetic acid is a strong oxidizing agent and severe irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.