Antimicrobial Thermoplastic Compound: New Formulations for Hygienic and Safe Surfaces

Antimicrobial thermoplastic compound: new formulations for hygienic and safe surfaces

Innovation in Functional Thermoplastic Materials

Antimicrobial thermoplastic compounds represent today one of the most interesting frontiers in the development of advanced materials for industrial, medical and environmental applications.
Thanks to the integration of active additives capable of reducing bacterial proliferation, these materials allow improving surface hygiene without compromising the mechanical and thermal properties of the base polymers.

During the IBS 2010 – International Biotechnology Symposium, an important international scientific event that brought together over 1,500 experts from 75 countries, innovative research on antimicrobial thermoplastic compounds developed to reduce the risk of microbial contamination in public and hospital environments was presented.

Research and Development in the Field of Antimicrobial Polymers

The research focused on the formulation of thermoplastic materials additized with antimicrobial agents stable at processing temperatures and compatible with injection molding techniques.
The main objective: to obtain a long-lasting antibacterial effect over time, integrated into the polymer structure and not limited to surface treatment alone.

The studies were conducted according to the ISO 22196:2007 standard, which measures antibacterial activity on plastic surfaces, comparing standard samples with additized compounds based on copper, silver, zinc and barium.

Mechanism of Action and most Effective Additives

The metallic additives used in antimicrobial thermoplastic compounds act by altering cellular osmotic balance and interfering with the vital functions of microorganisms.
The analyzed solutions showed significant results:

Copper proved to be the additive with the best compromise between efficacy, durability and economic sustainability, being particularly suitable also for food contact applications.
Its antibacterial action is linked to the destruction of the cell membrane and the consequent collapse of the osmotic balance of microorganisms.

Advantages of Integrated Antimicrobial Compounds

Unlike surface treatments, the antimicrobial action in thermoplastic compounds derives from the homogeneous distribution of the additive in the material.
This approach ensures:

• Prolonged efficacy over time, even after wear or abrasion;
• Stability at high temperatures typical of injection molding;
• Compatibility with structural polymers (PA, PBT, PP, ABS, PC, etc.);
• Maintenance of mechanical and aesthetic properties;
• Reduction of nosocomial infection risk (MRSA) in hospital applications.

These characteristics make these materials ideal for components intended for medical devices, healthcare furniture, handles, control panels, and public contact surfaces.

Testing and Regulatory Compliance

Experimental tests confirmed that antimicrobial thermoplastic compounds offer a high degree of bacterial load reduction compared to standard materials.
Compliance with the ISO 22196:2007 standard ensures that antibacterial activity measurements are scientifically reproducible and comparable.

Furthermore, the developed formulations are compliant with RoHS and REACH directives, ensuring the absence of hazardous substances and compliance with safety requirements for sensitive applications.

Industrial Applications and Prospects

The use of antimicrobial compounds finds application in numerous sectors:

• Medical and healthcare: components for hospital devices, buttons, covers, handles;
• Home automation and furniture: frequently touched surfaces, panels, switches;
• Public transport and infrastructure: handrails, seats, cabin elements;
• Packaging and food: containers and food contact surfaces.

Development prospects point towards the integration of bio-based antimicrobial agents and active nanocomposites, capable of combining antibacterial efficacy and environmental sustainability.

Conclusions and Invitation to Learn More

Antimicrobial thermoplastic compounds represent a concrete technological solution to increase the hygienic safety of plastic products used in critical environments.
By integrating active additives into the polymer matrix, it is possible to obtain self-protected surfaces that are durable and compliant with international standards.

Want to learn more about antimicrobial solutions for your technical components?
Discover the formulation possibilities of thermoplastic compounds with metallic and bio-based additives to ensure hygienic performance and durability over time. Contact us.

FAQ

1. How does an antimicrobial thermoplastic compound work?
   It interferes with microbial metabolism, preventing the proliferation of bacteria and pathogenic microorganisms on plastic surfaces.
2. What are the most effective additives?
   Copper and silver are among the most used for their high antibacterial efficacy and compatibility with industrial processes.
3. Are the mechanical properties of the polymer compromised?
   No, if correctly formulated, the compound maintains the mechanical, thermal and aesthetic performance of the base material.