The monomer 5,5-dimethyl-3-(3'-triethoxysilylpropyl)hydantoin and its hydrolysis product polymer poly [3-(5,5-dimethylhydantoinylpropyl)hydroxysiloxane] were employed to functionalize the surfaces of silica gel particles in order to produce an adhered film that becomes biocidal upon chlorination with dilute sodium hypochlorite bleach. The biocidal efficacy of the functionalized silica gel was demonstrated in a cartridge filter experiment against the bacterial pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli O157:H7. Complete 6 log inactivations of the two bacterial species were observed within 30 s of contact. Moreover, upon loss of biocidal activity due to depletion of bound chlorine, the coated silica gel particles could be recharged by further exposure to dilute bleach. Potential uses of the biocidal silica gel include disinfection and odor control in water treatment facilities and recirculating baths. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.