Flexible PVCs should be given antimicrobial protection to ensure the longevity of the material and to prevent stains. How is antimicrobial material protection added to materials, and how is its efficacy demonstrated? An expert explains.
Flexible PVC needs an antimicrobial treatment because the softeners it contains provide prime conditions for bacteria, algae mold, and mildew. Microbes multiply in environments where they have enough food, and it is warm and humid. The various areas of application for flexible PVC often provide an ideal living environment for microbes. Microbial infestation causes the material to become brittle or stained and thus necessitating early replacement. An antimicrobial additive from Sanitized® prevents microbial growth within the material. How? Dr. Martin Čadek, CTO at SANITIZED AG, explains in this interview.
How are antimicrobial additives added to the polymers?
Depending on the customer’s product, our experts consult with customers to select the suitable delivery form. Our products are available as a liquid, paste, powder, or masterbatch. Sanitized® products can therefore be integrated into the production process of practically any polymer manufacturer with little effort. Depending on the application process, the additives are added to the process in different steps and processed thermoplastically or as a paste into the end product.
How does an antimicrobial additive work in polymers?
The various Sanitized® technologies differ in their modes of action. Basically, however, they all do the same thing: They prevent microbes from multiplying in the material and damaging it.
The choice of antimicrobial additives depends on various factors. A major advantage of Sanitized® products is that they are compatible with common carrier systems, and the additives do not change products’ properties. During the application process, my team and I provide support to our customers, if they so desire. This is because, in addition to quality products, we use our experience to advise our customers – including in application technology.
Comparison between untreated material and Sanitized® treated material.
How can you demonstrate the effectiveness of antimicrobial additives in polymers?
We combine microbiological testing, analytics, and application technology at our headquarters in Burgdorf. In our laboratories, we perform efficacy tests according to the internationally recognized EN, ISO, DIN, AATCC, SNV, ASTM, and JIS standards. Our specialists carry out quality controls for our customer products, perform individual tests as agreed, define practical tests, and evaluate them. Our customers receive an all-round service package that inspires confidence.
Watch the video to learn more about SANITZED’s expertise in the field of PVC:
What are the disadvantages of antimicrobial treatment for polymers?
An antimicrobial treatment project usually requires initial effort in the form of an analysis of the production steps and an assessment of how the additives can be ideally integrated into the production process. Once this has been performed, an antimicrobial additive offers numerous advantages. We are convinced that the responsible use of antimicrobial additives also contributes to the sustainability of flexible PVC products. Since the integrated material protection extends the service life of flexible PVC, the articles need to be replaced less frequently. Sanitized® products do not wash out, even after prolonged exposure to weathering, and have no known effect on the recyclability of flexible PVC.
How do SANITZED customers justify the increased cost of a treated polymer to their customers?
Of course, Sanitized® additives have both their cost and their impact, which influence a customer’s purchase decision when it comes to a relatively low-priced product like PVC. However, we find that the added value is significantly greater than the extra cost. Sanitized® offers a 360° performance package. This includes the proven technologies from Sanitized®, personal advice, support in the application process, and laboratory services. In addition, Sanitized® license partners receive a broad set of marketing tools and comprehensive assistance in the development of potential advertising statements. Naturally, this features the well-known Sanitized® brand. Our license partners can also count on regulatory advice that facilitates their market entry and identifies any need for action. Ultimately, our customers’ customers benefit from all these services. In addition, our customers can also market their products with a clear conscience.
In this whitepaper, we have summarized the added value offered by the Sanitized® technology:
Do you already have a project in mind? Get in touch with us.
Dr. Martin Čadek, CTO at SANITIZED AG
