Biocidal Materials

With the current worldwide rise in bacterial "superbugs", MRSA and virulent pandemics such as SARS and bird flu, the preparation of disinfecting treatments and devices is a growing market. Most current biocidal materials are either prepared by impregnation with a disinfecting agent, or by washing with a halogenated solution which leaves an unpleasant odour and taste.

Using the Onto® process, a platform has been developed that permits the slow release of hydrogen peroxide, an environmentally benign broad-spectrum biocide, from a material. This process can be applied to

• Water and air filters for purification
• Work surfaces in hospitals, kitchens etc
• Fabrics such as drapes, sheets, uniforms etc
• Instruments or devices

Regeneration of this active-release system can be readily achieved by re-treatment with a dilute hydrogen peroxide solution.

This breakthrough technology can give any 'commodity material' a disinfecting action.