Sanitized, a leading producer of antimicrobial hygiene functions and material protection for textiles and plastics, has developed a new product for long-lasting antimicrobial protection for flexible polymer applications in response to the growing global antimicrobial market demands.

The company will exhibit its latest antimicrobial solutions at the upcoming Cinte Techtexil trade fair for nonwovens and technical textiles that will take place in Shanghai next month.

Key market requirements

Companies that use biocidal products to protect polymers and textiles from bacterial and fungal growth were faced with many changes in recent years, including regulatory developments that limit the available types of biocides.

For example, OBPA was the mostly used biocide to protect PVC and other plastics. Producers now need to find alternatives since OBPA was withdrawn from the sale in the EU in January 2013. The commonly used alternatives like DCOIT, BBIT, zinc pyrithione or IBPC have different limitations related to the various flexible polymer applications, the manufacturer reports.

Especially outdoor applications have increased requirements regarding the antimicrobial effectiveness after UV and water exposure. The key requirements include sufficient heat stability for the application process, initial discoloration as well as compatibility with other additives in the formulation. In addition, an additive should have no effect on yellowing after UV exposure.

Long-lasting protection

The company developed a new Sanitized PL 14-32 product as a highly effective and long-lasting antimicrobial protection for flexible polymer applications. Besides thermal stability and compatibility with most formulations, Sanitized PL 14-32 is said to provide water resistance, as well as high UV resistance and no yellowing after UV exposure.

It is designed to protect the material against unwanted effects of microbes, like bacteria, mould, mildew, yeast and algae – all of which can cause material destruction, unsightly stains, cross contamination, odour development and biofilm formation. Beside thermal and colour stability, the antimicrobial efficiency was checked in several formulations, the company reports.

The product is supported under the EU`s Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) and the active substances are approved under the US EPA.

Swiss antimicrobial expertise

Sanitized AG is a leading producer of antimicrobial hygiene functions and material protection for textiles and plastics. For over 80 years, the company has been undertaking pioneering work in this field and has become an established specialist in comprehensive hygiene concepts.

In addition to effective products, the range of services also includes advice on marketing and technical issues, diverse testing services, as well as a well-founded brand and license concept. The company says it only uses scientifically researched antimicrobial active ingredients that have undergone strictest risk assessments for people and the environment in internationally recognized procedures.

www.sanitized.com