Efficacy Requirements for Microbial Resistant Coatings

By Wolfgang Lindner , Gary L. Horacek

From the beginning of human existence, mankind has shared the planet with microorganisms. We have evolved together and still interact constantly. The vast majority of such interaction is beneficial, even essential, to the survival of man. This interaction usually goes unnoticed. However, recent new stories about bird flu, SARS, and bioterrorism threats have reminded the public about the abundance of microorganisms around us and the relative ease that diseases and microbial-induced problems can be transmitted.

Reem widely-publicized information about mold issues in poorly constructed homes and in the flooded homes along the U.S. Gulf Coast has
served to bring mold and mildew issues to the forefront of many peoples’ fears. Stories about moldy homes, poor indoor air quality, and dangerous black molds growing in air ducts contribute to anxieties about microbial induced health risks in our daily environment.

As a result manufacturers are experiencing an increased demand for surfaces in homes and public buildings to be treated in a manner that controls microbial growth on these surfaces, preferably over a prolonged period of time. Virtually every manufacturer of surfacing materials and coatings is determined to develop products to meet this need.