Abstract: A self-assembled active agent may be formed by a process including covalently bonding at least a first component molecule and a second component molecule, the two component molecules displaying synergy such that the effective amount of the self-assembled active agent is lower than the sum of the effective amounts of the first component molecule and the second component molecule. The component molecules may be chosen such that the covalent bonding is reversible, for example through a hydrazone bond between an amine and an aldehyde. The active agent may thus have controllable activity such as an antimicrobial agent, a biocide, an antiviral agent, a preservative, an antifouling agent, a disinfectant, or a sensor agent, such as for a particular molecule or for pH.

Abstract: A self-assembled active agent may be formed by a process including covalently bonding at least a first component molecule and a second component molecule, the two component molecules displaying synergy such that the effective amount of the self-assembled active agent is lower than the sum of the effective amounts of the first component molecule and the second component molecule. The component molecules may be chosen such that the covalent bonding is reversible, for example through a hydrazone bond between an amine and an aldehyde. The active agent may thus have controllable activity such as an antimicrobial agent, a biocide, an antiviral agent, a preservative, an antifouling agent, a disinfectant, or a sensor agent, such as for a particular molecule or for pH.