The Need for Smarter Surfaces
Interior design specialist Alison Koch has revealed that we could see a spike in demand for bacteria-resistant surfaces.
Referenced in an article on Forbes, Alison commented: “I think cleanable surfaces will be at the forefront of designers' and clients' minds for the foreseeable future.” She also predicts new innovations in building materials that help to inhibit bacterial growth and are easier to clean.
For more than 40 years, Microban® has been the driving force behind technologiesthat are redefining clean. Our antimicrobial formulations are manufactured into more than 1,000 products worldwide, enhancing everything from food storage containers to ceramic tiles with microbe-inhibiting properties.
By creating an inhospitable environment for microorganisms like bacteria, mould and mildew, Microban® protects everyday products from staining, bad odours, and premature degradation.
What’s more, our technologies are backed by a wealth of scientific data from credible independent laboratories.
Built-In Antimicrobial Product Protection vs. Disinfectants
Whilst both are effective against microbial growth, built-in antimicrobials are very different to disinfectants. Key contrasts include the way they are applied to surfaces, the length of time they will actively fight against microbial growth, and how they are registered with global regulatory bodies.
To put it simply, disinfectants have a limited residual effect whereas built-in antimicrobials remain active for the expected lifetime of a treated product (without the need for reapplication). When used in conjunction with one another, they can offer a proactive and complementary approach toward creating more hygienic environments.
P&G has changed the face of residual disinfectants with Microban 24, a range of cleaning products that keep working for 24 hours post initial application. Discover more about this revolutionary product line.
Trusted Technologies for Every Material Application
Microban's portfolio of antimicrobial technologies work 24/7 to maintain cleaner, fresher and more durable products. The protective shield can be added to pretty much any substrate you can think of.
Here’s a simple breakdown of typical material applications and how they are treated.
Antimicrobials for Plastics & Polymers
Microban® can be added to a range of plastics, including ABS, PP and PVC. The technology is incorporated into polymers using a pellet masterbatch for thermoplastics, or by a powder or liquid additive to liquid thermoset resins.
Common antimicrobial plastic applications include:
- Food storage containers
- Foam insulation
- Sealants
- Water tanks & piping
- Phone cases
- Plastic masterbatches
- Soft and Hard surface coolers
Microban® antimicrobial plastic technologies can be integrated into products without affecting gloss or matte surfaces, colour, durability, and resistance to cleaning solvents.
Antimicrobials for Paints & Coatings
Microban® has a portfolio of antimicrobial technologies for use in thermoplastic, thermosetting and other cross-linked or cured paints & coatings. Additives are incorporated into coatings using powder or liquid additives mixed in during the manufacturing process.
Common antimicrobial paint and coating applications include:
- Decorative paints
- Industrial coatings
- Lacquers
- Varnishes
- Inks
Delivery approaches can be fine-tuned to allow seamless incorporation into your manufacturing process without causing discolouration or affecting the final finish of the paint.
Antimicrobials for Textiles
With over two decades of experience in the textile arena, Microban® has created unique antimicrobial treatments for fabrics that effectively combat staining and odours.
Antimicrobial additives for textiles are delivered in liquid formulations. They are typically applied in a mill to common fabric types such as polyester, rayon and cotton via standard methods like exhaustion and padding. Microban® technologies can even be added to textiles as a topical treatment.
Common antimicrobial textile applications include:
Microban® has exclusive antimicrobial formulations that are fully compatible with other textile finishing agents.
Antimicrobials for Ceramics
Microban® has a breadth of expertise when it comes to treating ceramics. Our antibacterial technologies are incorporated into the secondary glaze of a ceramic tile without impairing its aesthetics, functionality or durability.
Common antimicrobial ceramic applications include:
- Wall tiles & floor tiles
- Dinnerware
- Sanitaryware
Microban® ceramics technologies have exclusive patents. These were granted following seven years of intensive research and development. Our formulations are also structured to pass the ASTM E3031 2015 test standard for evaluating antimicrobial performance of ceramic articles.
Antimicrobials for Metals
Microban® antimicrobial agents can be applied to metal surfaces in the form of an epoxy coating.
Common antimicrobial metal applications include:
- Kitchen appliances
- Handles
- Stainless Steel
- Aluminium composite panels
- Colour-coated steel sheets
- Door locks
Microban® technologies will work to protect metal surfaces from damaging microbial growth, so long as the coating remains intact.
Enhance Your Products with Protection That Lives On
Now more than ever before, manufacturers are actively seeking ways to enhance products and surfaces with smart technologies that improve overall environmental cleanliness.
Whilst Microban® formulations have no known efficacy against viruses, they are proven to eliminate harmful microbes such as antibiotic-resistant MRSA and E. coli.* This means that Microban® will actively complement existing cleaning protocols in every consumer, commercial and healthcare space you can think of - and what can be better than added peace of mind!
What's more, our technologies are registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and notified with the EU Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR). Selected formulations are also approved for use in food-contact articles.
For more information, contact a member of the team today.
IMPORTANT
Due to regulatory differences, the performance claims related to Microban® technologies that are referenced in this article may not be valid for use in all countries or regions. In some cases, legal regulations may restrict or prohibit the selection of available Microban® technologies, the field of application for which they are approved, and/or the permissible claims for finished goods containing Microban® technologies. For more information, view our official regulatory statement or contact us.
Microban® technologies are not designed to protect users or others from disease-causing microorganisms and are not a substitute for normal cleaning practices.
*Subject to the performance properties of the antimicrobial agent manufactured into your product. Treated product efficacy claims against specific microbes are dependent on the results of laboratory testing.
