Reactive compositions are provided, having biocidal and chemical decontamination /
neutralization properties, comprising a hygroscopic
polymer and an active, which are useful in a variety of commercial, healthcare and military applications and a wide variety of contaminants, including without limitation chemical and
biological warfare agents. The reactive compositions are renewable or rechargeable after use by
exposure to an additional application of the active and do not require removal, disposal or replacement of the originally applied composition. Methods for preparing and applying the reactive compositions are disclosed.