What Is an Antibacterial Coating?
Antiviral antibacterial coating, hereafter referred to as antibacterial coating, is a method of applying special materials to object surfaces to inhibit the growth of viruses and bacteria. The mechanism of antibacterial action varies among products.
Unlike sterilization or disinfection, which temporarily eliminate or remove microbes, coating surfaces with antibacterial materials prevents the growth of viruses and bacteria on these surfaces.
Application of Antibacterial Coating
The primary method of application is spraying the material using a spray gun. It is essential to thoroughly clean the surface before treatment to ensure optimal adhesion of the coating.
In budget-restricted scenarios, application may be limited to high-contact areas such as handrails or doorknobs.
Common Applications
Buildings frequented by people, like offices, commercial buildings, hotels, restaurants, cinemas, stadiums, schools, medical and welfare facilities, residential homes, and public transport vehicles like trains and buses, often receive antibacterial coating treatments.
Principles of Antibacterial Coating
The materials used in antibacterial coatings vary, with titanium dioxide and silver being popular choices.
1. Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide, a widely used photocatalyst in antibacterial coatings, generates reactive oxygen species under light exposure, breaking down viruses and bacteria into harmless substances. Although ultraviolet light typically activates photocatalysts, modern advancements have led to visible light-responsive variants suitable for indoor use.
2. Silver
Silver ions (Ag+) are known for their antiviral, antibacterial, deodorizing, and mold-resistant properties. They are commonly used in deodorants and are safe for use in various products, including dishes. Since titanium dioxide’s effectiveness depends on light, silver is often used to augment its effects, as it does not require light exposure.
Other Information on Antibacterial Coating
1. Effectiveness of Antibacterial Coating
The application of antibacterial coating offers several benefits:
- Antibacterial Effect: Spraying surfaces forms an antibacterial layer, providing lasting antibacterial, antiviral, and deodorizing effects.
- Durability: While traditional disinfectants may last for a few hours, antibacterial coatings continuously suppress the proliferation of viruses and bacteria for 1 to 5 years, reducing the need for frequent disinfection.
- Antiviral Effect: Coated surfaces have shown significant reductions in viral presence, including the new coronavirus, under light exposure.
- Bacterial Processed Products: Antibacterial products limit bacterial growth on surfaces, reducing their impact on humans without affecting the natural microbial ecosystems of the skin.
2. Safety of Antibacterial Coating
Antibacterial coatings are tested for human safety through various measures, including acute oral toxicity, skin irritation, and mutagenicity tests.
Products with the SIAA certification mark have passed these tests, aligning with the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry’s guidelines, ensuring their safety.