The presence of water in Isopropyl Alcohol 70% is a crucial factor in destroying or inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. Water acts as a catalyst and plays a key role in denaturing the proteins of vegetative cell membranes. 70% IPA solutions penetrate the cell wall more completely which permeates the entire cell, coagulates all proteins, and therefore the microorganism dies. Extra water content also slows evaporation, therefore increasing surface contact time and enhancing effectiveness.