n - halamine biocidal materials and coatings are provided . monomeric oxazolidinones or hydantoins are homopolymerized or copolymerized with other monomers so as to produce materials or coatings , which upon exposure to solutions of chlorine or bromine become biocidal . the biocidal materials and coatings are effective at inactivating microorganisms upon surface contact and are regenerable following loss of efficacy upon further exposure to solutions of chlorine or bromine . surfaces which could be treated with the materials and coatings include , but are not limited to : glass , plastic , metals , fibers , and wood for use in pool and tank liners , food wrappers , catheters , paints , tiles , shower walls , fabrics , sterile bandages , pipes , medical and dental coatings , preservatives , and the like .