SteriTouch® Antimicrobial Powder Coatings
We now offer a range of SteriTouch® polyester powder coatings containing an effective antimicrobial agent designed for both interior and exterior use. The range is specially formulated to give a tough finish with excellent durability to prevent the growth of bacteria, biofilm, mould and other viruses by up to 99.99% for the life time of the product.
What is the purpose of making a surface antimicrobial?
The purpose of SteriTouch® is not to create a sterile environment – we all know that being exposed to certain types of bacteria builds a healthy immune system. However, bacterial infections such as MRSA, E. coli and Listeria can be very serious and SteriTouch® acts as a complementary measure to routine cleaning.
How the technology works
Silver ions embedded in the material substrate are released via ambient moisture and enter the cell membrane. The silver ions destabilise the cell, stop respiration and inhibit cell division, while blocking the replication of DNA, killing the cell. All of the active substances used are approved by the EPA, EFSA and FDA, and are supported for authorisation under the Biocidal Products Regulation. The additive we use are non-leaching and non-sensitising.
Reduction in harmful bacteria
Will it
wear off?
Once the antimicrobial additive has been incorporated into a material, it is essentially there to stay. Recent independent testing demonstrated no loss in antimicrobial performance, even after 10 years of accelerated ageing. Ionic silver-based additives will not lose efficacy due to leaching or migration, and since they are evenly dispersed throughout the material, even scratches and abrasion do not affect performance. Importantly, additives are unaffected by cleaning chemicals such as chlorine bleach, disinfectants and alcohol. Even harsh industrial products like MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) do not diminish the antimicrobial properties of products that have been protected.
Will SteriTouch antimicrobial additives kill Coronavirus?
Coronavirus COVID-19 is an enveloped virus, so called because of its fatty outer membrane or ‘envelope’. Several of the active substances SteriTouch® use have been successfully tested against other enveloped viruses, such as Influenza, Avian flu and SARS. It would be reasonable to imply that those same active substances would be effective against COVID-19.
Helpful resources for controlling the spread of
infection can be found below.
SteriTouch® is a registered trademark of Radical Materials Ltd