Gummiwerk Kraiburg develops antibacterial compounds for various polymers

Waldkraiburg, Germany – Antibacterial surfaces prevent the formation, development and transfer of bacteria, mold and spores. The use of certain antibacterial active ingredients damages the cell membranes, thus interrupting the functions of the germs and preventing their proliferation. Gummiwerk Kraiburg is developing customer-specific elastomer compounds with an additive which has an antimicrobial effect, and the physical and rheological properties of which remain unchanged.

As well as reducing bacteria by >99 percent without any additional coating, the antimicrobial elastomer compounds also reduce a vast number of other microorganisms, such as mold. Even after the surface is cleaned, the antibacterial effectiveness remains for a long time, as the additive is incorporated into the polymer matrix and does not bloom from the rubber. The germ-reducing effect was confirmed in independent laboratory tests in accordance with ISO 22196:2011 and JIS Z 2801.

Gummiwerk Kraiburg is developing the antibacterial compounds for various types of polymer in the hardness range of 30-90 durometer A. The main applications are materials and objects which come into contact with the human body. In busy public areas with additional hygiene requirements, these could be controls, handrails, handles and door handles, blinds and seals, for instance. The vast offering of polymers and hardness ranges generates individual solutions for various areas of use which can be developed and produced to suit the individual customer’s needs as part of a consultation. The use of different additives means that antibacterial compounds are also possible for applications coming into contact with foodstuffs.