Abstract
Ever-increasing numbers of plastics articles are made with built-in antibacterial performance - from kitchen utensils to air filters, flooring and calculators. They carry claims ranging from protecting health and improving hygiene to odour control and freshness.
Market research was therefore commissioned in order to understand consumers' views on these products. There was a strong positive response to the incorporation of antibacterial performance in domestic articles used around children, and in those with food and medical uses. There was even greater interest in antibacterial products in public areas, such as restaurants, hospitals, and transportation.
Avecia have launched a range of antibacterial additives aimed at polyolefins and PVC. Experimental data have been generated on antibacterial PVC, using a quantitative method, the JIS Test Method Z2801, with two relevant organisms. Interpretation of the raw data to support performance claims is detailed. The company has also developed a growing business in antibacterial consumer products, supported by the co-brand Purista™. Initially aimed at textiles, the co-brand is now available to manufacturers of plastic articles, provided performance and marketing standards are met. An example of use of the Purista™ co-brand is the labelling of PVC cooler bags.