Paper Manufacturer Launches New Antimicrobial Surface Treatment

Arjowiggins has launched an antimicrobial surface treatment for paper products that inhibits the ability of bacteria and viruses to survive on the surface. In independent testing, a reduction in human Coronavirus was seen in as little as just one hour. The new solution incorporates Biomaster™, a silver-based antimicrobial technology, to proactively inhibit the growth of harmful microbes for the intended lifetime of the product, or up to 10 years.

Testing carried out by the paper manufacturer showed this antimicrobial technology inhibited bacterial growth, including MRSA and E.coli, by up to 99% over a 24 hour period, and a greater than 93% reduction in human Coronavirus, in just one hour.

Sandrine Garnier, managing director of Addmaster, explained: “Our antimicrobial Biomaster™ additive provides a second line of defense against harmful bacteria. We use silver ion technology, a natural antibacterial, that works to reduce the microbial load on surfaces to make the product more hygienic and can be used very effectively in conjunction with cleaning regimes.”

The surface treatment is particularly beneficial where papers are handled by multiple people or where there is a risk of microbial propagation, in hygiene critical environments such as in hospitals, classrooms and hospitality venues. It also offers added value for numerous applications, including packaging, restaurant menus, etc.

Gael Depres, central research and development manager at Arjowiggins, said: “The surface treatment does not take away from the attributes of our papers, without affecting color, appearance, recyclability or shelf life.”