New anti-bacterial and anti-fungal plastics developed
A new series of masterbatches of anti-microbial plastic, which have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, have been developed by UK plastics and tagging technology company, Symphony Environmental Technologies (Symphony).
Symphony said its ‘d2p’ range of anti-microbial plastics inhibit the growth of fungi, mould, algae and bacteria.
Anti-bacterial
According to Symphony, the anti-bacterial masterbatch, ‘ab d2p’, has been successfullly tested against “over 50 common organisms, including dangerous bacteria such as MRSA, E.coli, Salmonella, Listeria, Pseudomonas and Aspergillus Niger”.
The Company said anything that is made of plastic or has a plastic coating could have the silver-based technology incorporated at manufacture. In addition to its anti-bacterial properties, Symphony said the masterbatch “helps prevent staining, helps prevent discolouration, and helps prevent odour development”.
Anti-fungal
The anti-fungal masterbatch, ‘af d2p’, has been successfully tested against fungi such as M.Piriformis and P.Roqueforti, bacteria and algae, according to Symphony.
The Company said the non-silver-based anti-fungal active ingredient is used globally in a variety of applications, such as anti-fouling paints, building products and textiles. According to Symphony, the ingredient is similar to the ingredient used in anti-dandruff shampoos.
“It acts to prevent the growth of fungi, bacteria, mildew and algae that can cause discolouration, straining and odours, and which are a danger for human health,” Symphony said.
The product can potentially “increase the shelf-life of fresh food, reduce requirement for food preservatives, and inhibit mould growth on food and non-food applications”.
