ST Powder Coatings has developed powder coatings with antibacterial and antiviral properties under the name Microfree. According to the supplier, these properties are automatically activated immediately after coating and act continuously and constantly without the need for manual cleaning or disinfection measures. By reducing bacterial and viral loads, the risk of infection is reduced. Microfree maintains its antimicrobial function even after regular cleaning procedures, according to the manufacturer. The supplier has developed two product lines: ST Powder Coatings markets powder coatings with antibacterial activity under the name Microfree, and Microfree-V powder coatings have antiviral activity in addition to Microfree's antibacterial activity. The antibacterial efficacy of the Microfree series was tested and validated against four bacterial strains in an external laboratory accredited by ACCREDIA-ILAC in accordance with the requirements of ISO 22196:2011. A reduction in bacterial load of more than 99% was observed after only 2 h. The antiviral efficacy of Microfree-V series was tested and validated in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory according to the requirements of ISO 21702:2019 and GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) against Human Coronavirus (OC43) and Influenza A (H1N1). After 24 h, a decrease in viral load of more than 95% was observed. Additional testing was carried out in an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory in accordance with the requirements of ISO 21702:2019 against SARS-CoV-2, where a decrease in viral load of more than 99% was also detected after 24 h. The powder coatings are also suitable for use in the production of medical devices. The powder coatings are particularly suitable for use in or on medical facilities and equipment, kindergartens and schools, door and window handles, furniture in busy facilities (airports, train stations), public transport (trains, buses, airplanes), street furniture, stores, fitness equipment, lockers, control panels, vending machines, ATMs and so on.
Autor(en): wi
