ANTIMICROBIALS | ADDITIVES
Jennifer Markarian reports on the latest developments in antimicrobial and biocidal additives for use in thermoplastic compounds
Providing plastics with integrated protection
Antimicrobial and biocidal additives can provide important protection for durable plastic applications that need to resist degradation, fouling and health risks caused by the growth of bacteria, fungi, or algae. A range of chemistries is used, depending on the microbe of concern and the application, which can include outdoor products such as tents or pool liners, kitchen and food-contact products such as cutting boards, and plastic products in healthcare or hospital environments, to name just a few. With the trend toward reusable consumer
products, antimicrobials could also find a place in durable or reusable products that have previously been intended for single or limited use, such as drink cups or shopping bags, although additive cost could be a limiting factor. While consumer demand for clean surfaces continues post-pandemic, consumers may perceive biocides as “dangerous” chemicals and may also
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be unable to distinguish between different types. Adding to this challenge, regulatory pressure continues to intensify in the EU on many traditional biocidal chemistries. As a result, there is growing interest in alternatives, including “natural” products. Durable products will continue to benefit from the use of antimicrobials. Experts note, however, that antimicrobials should be used as part of a system. That can mean, for example, using antimicrobials to protect a surface along with regular implementation of surface cleaning procedures. In other cases, innovative product designs can facilitate conditions that reduce risk of microbial growth. “For example, a washing machine (especially a
front-loading model) can trap moisture and grow microbes in the form of biofilms and fungus in areas that are impossible to clean,” says Ivan Ong, a veteran antimicrobial industry expert who spent many years working with global antimicrobial
July 2023 | COMPOUNDING WORLD 17
Main image: Antimicrobial additives offer protection against material
damage and health hazards but regulation is complex and restrictions intensifying
IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK
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