What Is Antimicrobial Technology?

Antimicrobial: adjective | an·ti·mi·cro·bi·al | ˌan-ti-mī-ˈkrō-bē-əl - Destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic microorganisms.

For Microban®, antimicrobial technology can be defined as a substance that works to inhibit the growth and reproduction of harmful bacteria, mold and mildew. Unlike disinfectants which provide a limited residual activity once the treated surface dries, integrated antimicrobial technology works to continuously minimize the presence of microbes throughout the entire lifecycle of a product.

How Does Antimicrobial Technology Work?

Antimicrobial technology works at a cellular level to continually disrupt the growth and reproduction of microorganisms. It operates a multi-modal attack, damaging the protein, cell membrane, DNA and internal systems of a microbe. Once infused into a product, antimicrobial technology will start to work as soon as the microorganism comes into contact with the protected surface.

What Is An Antimicrobial Additive?

An antimicrobial additive is a liquid, powder or masterbatch pellet that contains an appropriately registered antimicrobial agent. Integrated at the stage of manufacture, an antimicrobial additive will provide around-the-clock hygienic protection for the expected lifetime of a product. Additive formulations are based on a series of factors including target material and production processes.

What Are The Active Ingredients In Antimicrobial Technology?

Antimicrobial technology typically contains one of three inorganic ingredients: silver, zinc or copper. The technology can also utilize organic ingredients such as Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QUATs). The chosen biocide is largely dependent on the product type, where in the world it will be sold, and what efficacy claims the manufacturer is looking to make. Microban's portfolio contains more than 25 approved antimicrobial technologies, each customized for effective use across a variety of industries and applications.