Some of today’s advanced coatings are formulated to kill bacteria or prevent the growth of mold and fungus on painted surfaces, even long after the paint has been applied.
Three terms used to describe these coatings – antimicrobial, antibacterial, microbicidal – are often misunderstood and misused. Each is significantly different, so understanding them will help you steer customers to the right paint product for their specific project needs.
Advanced Coatings: The Difference Between Antimicrobial, Antibacterial, & Microbicidal
Antimicrobial
- When microbes grow on the painted surface, they can cause staining and deterioration. This reduces the effectiveness of the coating. Coatings that contain an antimicrobial can inhibit the growth of these microorganisms, such as mildew and mold. Antimicrobial agents protect the paint film from degradation. They also inhibit the growth of bacterial odor.
- Use the term antimicrobial in product claims across a variety of materials – like shower curtains, toilet seats, and other household products.
Antibacterial
- Use antibacterial agents to inhibit the growth of bacteria.
- As employed in paint and coatings, antibacterial agents typically only inhibit the growth of common microbes that make up harmful bacteria. This means they only protect the paint film itself.
Microbicidal
- Generally speaking, microbicidal substances or compounds go a step further by actually killing microscopic organisms on the surface.
- Paints formulated with these properties are designed to kill microorganisms (such as bacteria or other infection-causing microorganisms) on painted surfaces.
- The advent of microbicidal paint represents a major breakthrough in the industry with far-reaching benefits for not only healthcare facilities but other projects at places like athletic facilities, schools, day care centers, senior care communities, residential housing, hospitality settings and cruise ships.
Advanced Coatings: Recap
So now you know the differences between antimicrobial, antibacterial, & microbicidal. Asses your project. Then use the advanced coating that fits your needs.
So Amigos, which products are you using that have either Antimicrobial, Antibacterial, or Microbicidal agents? Share below…
Also, check out Paint Amigo’s advance coatings applicator recommendations below (Amazon affiliate links)…
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