Untreated plastic articles can be attacked by microbic growth causing unsightly discoloration, unpleasant odors, and polymer degradation issues.
Antimicrobial additives can be incorporated with plastic resins during compounding or as a masterbatch during molding and provide a biocide treatment to control microbes.
Common microbes antimicrobials can be effective against include
Multiple antimicrobial technologies are available which are compatible with wide variety thermoplastic resins
Silver-based antimicrobials
Silver has been used for centuries as a biosatic agent. When contacted by moisture an electrochemical reaction releases silver ions. These ions penetrate microbes rendering them unable to function, grow, or reproduce.
A wide variety of plastic articles are suitable* for antimicrobial treatment
- Medical devices, FDA 510(k)
- Sports and recreation equipment
- Food processing and handling machinery
- Business machines and consumer appliances
- General household goods
- Textile films & fibers
- Transportation interiors
- Construction supplies
- Any outdoor applications
* In the United States usage and benefit claims are regulated by the EPA or guided by the FDA depending on usage.