Retford, UK – Polyurethane components maker Trelleborg, has launched a range of silver-containing formulations to protect surfaces at risk of bacterial and viral contamination.
AMV Shield can be incorporated into polyurethane materials to give passive protection in areas such as handles and grab rails.
The company said it has been shown to protect against multiple different bacteria and viruses. These include MRSA, influenza A subtype H1N1, VRE, C. difficile and E. coli.
Terry Cooper, managing director of Trelleborg's applied technologies business, said: 'Integrating this system into our polymeric products gives long-lasting, continuous protection from a wide variety of pathogens.'
He added that the protection does not leach out into the environment. This means that protection could last for more than 25 years, he said.
The company is also considering food-contact applications for the technology.