N-halamine compounds which contain hindered amine and amide functional groups. Compounds include ##STR00001## wherein X, X', and X'' independently are H, Cl, or Br, wherein no more than two of X, X', and X'' are H and ##STR00002## wherein R, R', and R'' are independently alkyl groups containing 1 to 4 carbon atoms or hydrogen, and X and X' are independently H, Cl, or Br. Compositions comprising the compounds are also described. The compounds and/or compositions can be used, for example, for the purpose of constructing biocidal coatings and materials. The biocidal activity can inactivate pathogenic microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and yeasts, as well as, virus particles.