Create high-performing antimicrobial plastics with Microban
Microban is widely recognized as the world leader in built-in antimicrobial technologies. Our portfolio of antimicrobial additives helps keep polymer products and surfaces cleaner by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew. Microban's customized chemistries are incorporated into plastic products at the point of manufacture and provide ongoing protection for the expected lifetime of the product.
How are antimicrobial additives integrated into plastics?
Microban has over 25 approved antimicrobial technologies that can be formulated into polymer pellets, powders, or liquids. For injection molded or extruded thermoplastic polymers, an extensive set of specialized pellet-based masterbatches are available to ensure seamless incorporation. These masterbatches are designed to be used in a manner similar to color masterbatches and are safe to handle, accurate to add via a variety of methods, and fully compatible with your manufacturing method and material without requiring process changes.
Microban also offers a variety of powder and liquid-based masterbatches for other processes such as powder coating, reaction injection molding, cross-linked liquid applied coatings, roto-molding, and foaming. All of our antimicrobial technologies for plastics can be integrated during manufacture without affecting gloss or matte surfaces, color, durability, and resistance to cleaning solvents.
The world-class research & development team at Microban includes experienced polymer engineers who work directly with partners to identify the best antimicrobial agents for their plastic products. More than 30,000 tests are conducted annually at our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and our team stands behind the efficacy of each application.
Proven antimicrobial plastic technologies
SilverShield® is a range of silver-based antibacterial technologies for plastics. The proven formulations operate a multi-modal attack, eliminating up to 99.9% of bacterial growth.
ZPTech® is a range of zinc-based, multi-modal antimicrobial technologies for plastics. The formulations are proven to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew on plastic articles.
AEGIS® is a full spectrum liquid antimicrobial suitable for use in a wide range of urethane cross-linked chemistries including urethane foams and Reaction Injection Molding (RIM) processes.
Microban partners in the plastic products industry
MacDermid: Polyester Films
A leading player in metal and plastics finishings, MacDermid Enthone partners with Microban to achieve built-in antimicrobial protection on their hard-coated polyester film, Autotex AM. This unique application is an ideal solution for communal surfaces including door hardware, POS equipment, and touchscreen kiosks.
Great Dane: Trailer Liners
Supporting compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) guidelines, Great Dane incorporates Microban antimicrobial product protection into the polymer film liners of their refrigerated reefers. This added layer of protection is designed to hinder invisible threats and contribute to a cleaner transportation system.
Poly: Workplace Communications
Poly, a global leader in unified communications devices, offers select product lines enhanced with built-in Microban antimicrobial technology. Bringing peace of mind back to the office, treated Poly Rove and VVX x50 Desktop Phones are manufactured with an antimicrobial additive to create an inherently cleaner product.
The benefits of Microban antimicrobial plastic protection
Active 24/7
Microban antimicrobial protection is a permanent, cost-effective solution that remains active for your plastic product's expected lifetime.
Redefines clean
Microban antimicrobial plastic additives create inherently cleaner and more durable plastic products. These invaluable features make antimicrobial plastics perfect for use in hygiene-critical, high-traffic environments such as hospitals, food processing facilities, and schools.
Antibacterial*
Microban antimicrobial plastic additives have been proven to reduce the presence of harmful bacteria on plastics. Tested strains include E. coli, Campylobacter, and antibiotic-resistant MRSA.
Antifungal*
Microban antimicrobial plastic additives help your plastic product resist the growth of unsightly mold and mildew.
Stops the stink
Microban technologies preserve the aesthetics of your plastic product by minimizing the presence of stain and odor-causing bacteria.
Sustainable
Microban technologies actively inhibit the growth of microbes that will prematurely degrade plastics. This means your product will benefit from an increased life expectancy and is less likely to end up as plastic waste.
Safe to use
Microban antimicrobial plastic additives have undergone extensive independent laboratory testing and have a long history of safe use. The biocidal active components of Microban additives are notified with the EU Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) and registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Food contact*
Selected Microban antimicrobial plastic technologies are food contact approved, being listed on EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), and registered with the EPA. They are also permitted for use in food contact applications by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the United States.
Tried & trusted
Microban antimicrobial plastic additives are used and trusted by some of the world's leading plastic product manufacturers. Brand partners include Speck, Rubbermaid, GE Appliances, JCP Plastic, and Whirlpool.