The Role of Antimicrobial Additives in Building Materials
As hygiene becomes a core driver in modern building design, the materials used within public and commercial spaces are under increasing scrutiny. Among the technologies available to architects, designers, and facilities managers is the integration of antimicrobial technologies into building materials.
Antimicrobial technology, when responsibly formulated and properly incorporated, offer a valuable contribution to material performance and can contribute meaningfully to improved built environments.
Evolving Demands in the Built Environment
Increased attention to public hygiene, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the risk of future pandemics, has shifted how we think about shared spaces. Expectations around hygiene have never been higher, especially in sectors such as healthcare, transportation, education, food service, and hospitality.
At the same time, global efforts to promote sustainability and circular economy principles have placed pressure on product manufacturers to extend the lifespan of building materials and reduce environmental waste.
These dual challenges, enhanced cleanliness and improved material durability, have driven increased interest in antimicrobial additives. As a result, it is crucial to explore both their capabilities.
What is Antimicrobial Technology?
Antimicrobial technology, such as Biomaster, is an additive incorporated into materials at the point of manufacture designed to inhibit the growth of microorganisms.
These additives are typically integrated during manufacturing into surfaces such as:
- Vinyl flooring
- Wall cladding
- Coatings and paints
- Sealants and adhesives
- Polymer and resin-based materials
The result is a surface with built-in product protection that actively inhibits microbial growth throughout the product’s lifecycle.
Core Benefits of Antimicrobial Technology in Building Materials
Improved Surface Cleanliness - Antimicrobial surfaces help reduce microbial load between traditional cleaning cycles. This can be particularly beneficial in high-traffic, hard-to-clean, or frequently touched areas.
Product Durability - Microbial growth can degrade materials over time, causing discoloration, staining, odours, or physical deterioration. Antimicrobial product protection can extend the lifespan of materials, reducing maintenance costs and early replacement.
Improved Aesthetic Longevity - In areas such as commercial washrooms, hotel rooms, or restaurants, the visible cleanliness of surfaces affects user experience. Materials treated with antimicrobial technology stay cleaner for longer, supporting brand image and guest satisfaction.
Reduced Cleaning Burden - While not a replacement for traditional cleaning, antimicrobial technology supports easier cleaning processes by helping surfaces resist buildup. This can contribute to operational efficiency, especially in large facilities.
Where Does Antimicrobial Technology Add Value?
Not every building product requires antimicrobial properties. However, in the right environments, this technology provides measurable value:
- Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, and care homes benefit from reduced microbial buildup on high-touch surfaces.
- Education: Schools and universities have high occupancy and frequent surface contact.
- Public Transportation: Surfaces in buses, trains, and airports are touched by thousands daily.
- Hospitality & Leisure: Cleanliness expectations in hotels, gyms, and entertainment venues are high.
- Food Preparation & Retail: Antimicrobial surfaces support compliance in kitchens, food counters, and grocery stores.
How Antimicrobial Technology Works
Mechanisms of Action - Most antimicrobial technologies work by interfering with microbial cell function. Silver ions, for instance, bind to cell walls, interfere with enzyme function, and disrupt replication. The additives are encapsulated in the material, ensuring long-term efficacy without leaching. This provides a controlled release of active agents that remain effective throughout the lifetime of the product.
Regulatory Oversight and Safety Standards - Antimicrobial technologies are governed by multiple layers of regulation and performance standards:
- Biocidal Products Regulation (EU BPR): Requires registration and evaluation of biocidal products and treated articles.
- EPA (U.S.) Registration: Evaluates safety, efficacy, and environmental impact.
- ISO 22196 / JIS Z 2801: Measures antibacterial activity on plastic and non-porous surfaces.
- ASTM E2149: Assesses antimicrobial activity under dynamic contact conditions.
These frameworks ensure that antimicrobial products are effective, safe to use, and clearly labelled for their intended applications.
Integration Into Design and Maintenance Strategies
Antimicrobial technology should be specified as part of a comprehensive building strategy that also includes:
- Thoughtful layout and ventilation design
- High-performance cleaning protocols
- Material choices based on use patterns
- Risk-based hygiene planning
When used in tandem with these strategies, antimicrobial technology adds an extra layer of assurance, supporting cleaner spaces.
A Valuable Tool for the Right Job
Antimicrobial technology is not a catch-all solution. But it is a powerful tool to support cleanliness, protect product materials, and promote longer-lasting built environments.
The future of the built environment will continue to demand smarter materials. Antimicrobial technologies have an important role to play in meeting that challenge.
References and Further Reading
- ISO 22196: Measurement of antibacterial activity on plastics and non-porous surfaces - https://www.iso.org/standard/54431.html
- EU Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) - https://echa.europa.eu/regulations/biocidal-products-regulation/understanding-bpr
- EPA Guidance on Treated Articles - https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/antimicrobial-pesticide-registration
- ASTM E2149: Dynamic contact test method - https://microchemlab.com/test/astm-e2149
- The Role of Silver in Antimicrobial Technology - https://www.addmaster.co.uk/blog/the-role-of-silver-in-antimicrobial-additive-technology
What Next?
🔗 Follow us on Social Media, here is our LINK TREE
✉️ See how our additive technology can benefit your business by CONTACTING US
🦠 Find out more about Biomaster Antimicrobial Technology HERE
🎥 Watch our video on how Biomaster works WATCH NOW
📰 Subscribe to our Newsletter - SUBSCRIBE
← Back to blog
