Be(a)ware of Anti-bacterial & antimicrobial products

30 December 2020: Shaun Holdom, Global Product Manager at Drytac, USA, in his recent blog stated that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed our perception of hygiene and cleanliness, spurring the development of films and coatings with antimicrobial performance. Not all antimicrobial coatings and products are created equal. “Some are only effective against bacteria (antibacterial) while some are effective against a wider range of microbes – such as algae and fungus – offering antimicrobial protection. However, this performance does not necessarily protect against viruses, so users need to choose carefully.”

Previously, these coatings and products struggled to find widespread adoption due to difficulties in qualifying their effectiveness on human health and justifying any additional costs. However, the pandemic has drawn attention to measures that can provide additional protection and reassurance to the general public and this has created a new need for antimicrobial surface protection.

Shaun Holdom states that when considering products for use as a preventative measure and increasing hygiene performance, it is important to understand the limitations of the three main antimicrobial technologies: zinc, silver and copper. All can provide protection against bacteria, but only some can offer antimicrobial protection. As damage or cuts on the film can harbour bacteria, it is important for the additive to be imbued in the film rather than in a top-coating which can be easily scuffed, scratched and worn.

Drytac, the manufacturer of Protac AMP Film, now offers Protac AMP Film, imbued with Microban antimicrobial protection to help fight the growth of stain and odour causing bacteria and mould. When bacteria contaminate a surface such as a door or touchpad – as a result of human contact, environmental conditions or simply lack of cleaning – they can multiply very quickly. Similarly, fungi and mould can proliferate on a surface. Regular cleaning with an effective detergent will remove these microorganisms.

Drytac Protac AMP Film can help maintain cleanliness in between cleaning. It offers reliable protection from the growth of stain and odour causing bacteria and mould. Protac AMP Film has already been used on drinks machines, tray tables on aircraft, and in healthcare facilities and schools, with literally hundreds of other potential applications. This product can help maintain the highest standards of cleanliness.

www.drytac.com