FAQ

Microban antimicrobial protection is built into products to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mould or mildew that can cause stains, odours and product deterioration. When used in conjunction with good hygiene practices, Microban technology works between cleanings to inhibit the growth of these broad spectrum bacteria and moulds, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.

Microban utilises over 20 different antimicrobial technologies that are selected and optimised for a broad range of product applications.

Antimicrobial is a general term that refers to additives or treatments which have either antibacterial or antifungal properties or both.

Once bacteria come into contact with the Microban surface, the technology works by disrupting their biological functioning, the lifecycle cannot proceed and the bacteria then die.

Microban antimicrobial additives are used in a range of material types, such as plastics ceramics, textiles, coatings and metals.

When incorporated into solid materials for example plastics Microban additives are homogeneously distributed throughout the entire product matrix.

When incorporated into coatings such as paints, lacquers or powder coatings the Microban antimicrobial additives are designed to function in this upper coating only.

Disinfectants are an instant but short term solution that provides only a limited residual activity once the treated surface dries. Bacteria can then very quickly start to grow and reproduce. As an alternative, Microban antimicrobial additives guarantee long lasting protection, continuously working to prevent the growth of bacteria throughout the entire lifecycle of the product.

For ease of mixing and homogenous distribution, Microban antimicrobial additives can be supplied in powder, polymer pellet or liquid forms depending on the product to be treated and the manufacturing method employed.

Microban antimicrobial additives are built in for the useful life of the product; they will not wash out, or wear away.

Durability studies have been successfully carried out to simulate a range of conditions that demonstrate the performance of the technology being used, during the useful life of the product.

Microban treated products are tested for their efficacy in accordance with internationally recognised standards. The test method selected will depend on the product type and antimicrobial additive used.

The biocidal active components of Microban antimicrobial additives are notified with the Biocidal Products Directive for the relevant product types in accordance with their end use application.

In addition Microban antimicrobial additive masterbatches are registered with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals).

Microban antimicrobial additives have undergone extensive independent laboratory testing and have a long history of safe use, across a wide range of product types. The biocidal active components of Microban antimicrobial additives are notified with the Biocidal Products Directive.

Microban treated plastic products will contain the antimicrobial treatment until the end of their useful life and until recycled. The active antimicrobial additive will be present at low concentrations at the point of recycling. If, for example, the plastic is re-melted and mixed with other post consumer waste of a similar type, the active antimicrobial will be diluted but still remain in the resultant blend. The antimicrobial efficacy will diminish as the additive is diluted during the recycling process.