What Are Antimicrobial Coatings and Why Are They Essential?
Antimicrobial coatings are surface treatments enhanced with additives that inhibit the growth of bacteria, mould, fungi, and even algae. Unlike disinfectants or surface sprays that offer temporary protection, antimicrobial coatings provide long-lasting, built-in hygiene — helping reduce microbial contamination on treated surfaces around the clock.
At Addmaster, our Biomaster technology integrates seamlessly into coatings to deliver dependable antimicrobial performance, without altering aesthetics or performance.
How Do Antimicrobial Coatings Work?
Biomaster antimicrobial additives are typically based on silver ion technology — a proven, broad-spectrum antimicrobial that disrupts microbial cell function. Once incorporated into a coating system (such as powder coatings, lacquers, paints, or varnishes), silver ions become active when microbes land on the surface, helping prevent their growth or reproduction.
The result? Surfaces that stay cleaner, more hygienic, and less likely to harbour harmful microbes.
Key Benefits of Antimicrobial Coatings:
- Continuous Protection: Built-in technology that works 24/7, not just after cleaning.
- Prevents Odour-Causing Bacteria: Reduces microbial activity that can cause unpleasant smells.
- Extends Product Lifespan: By reducing microbial degradation, coatings last longer.
- Invisible & Durable: Won’t flake off or lose efficacy with time or wear.
- Supports Existing Cleaning Protocols: Enhances hygiene without replacing routine cleaning.
Where Are Antimicrobial Coatings Used?
Biomaster can be added to virtually any type of coating — liquid, powder, or UV-cured — and is widely used in industries where hygiene is critical:
Healthcare:
- Bed rails, IV stands, hospital equipment coatings
- Wall paints and powder-coated surfaces in sterile environments
Built Environments:
- Door hardware, handrails, HVAC grilles
- Switches, sockets, and wall cladding
Consumer Goods:
- Fridge interiors, kitchen surfaces, home appliances
- Mobile accessories and remote controls
Education & Transport:
- School furniture and buses
- Train interiors, hand poles, tray tables
Industrial & OEM:
- Machinery housings, cleanroom enclosures, and more
Why Biomaster Is Different
Not all antimicrobial coatings are created equal. Addmaster’s Biomaster technology offers:
- Proven efficacy tested to ISO 22196 / JIS Z 2801
- Versatility across all major coating chemistries
- Comprehensive regulatory and technical support
- Decades of experience working with global coating manufacturers
Biomaster additives are formulated for compatibility with epoxy, polyurethane, acrylic, polyester, and hybrid systems — and can be tailored to suit your coating process, whether powder or liquid-based.
Built-In Hygiene That Lasts
As demand grows for cleaner, more hygienic surfaces, antimicrobial coatings offer a smart, proactive solution. With Biomaster, you gain more than just a coating — you gain a competitive edge.
"We routinely incorporate antimicrobial additives into printed materials, particularly in packaging requiring the highest standards of hygiene.” — Tom Heath, Technical Director at EBi, a customer of Addmaster
Whether you’re manufacturing hospital-grade paint, commercial powder coatings, or home appliance finishes, Addmaster’s technology ensures your coatings do more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is an antimicrobial coating?
An antimicrobial coating is a surface treatment that includes additives designed to inhibit the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, mold, fungi, and algae. These coatings provide long-lasting hygiene protection on high-touch surfaces.
How do Biomaster antimicrobial coatings work?
Biomaster uses silver ion technology to disrupt the biological processes of microbes. When bacteria land on a treated surface, silver ions interfere with cell function — helping prevent growth and reproduction.
Is Biomaster effective against viruses?
Biomaster is primarily designed for antibacterial protection. However, testing has shown that silver-based additives may also be effective against certain viruses under specific conditions. Please contact us for details on viral efficacy data.
How long does the antimicrobial effect last?
The protection provided by Biomaster is built-in and lasts for the expected lifetime of the coating. It doesn’t wear off or wash away under normal use.
Does it replace cleaning or disinfecting?
No. Antimicrobial coatings complement — but do not replace — regular cleaning and disinfection. They provide ongoing protection between cleaning cycles by reducing the risk of microbial contamination on treated surfaces.
Can Biomaster be added to any type of coating?
Yes. Biomaster can be incorporated into powder coatings, water-based paints, varnishes, lacquers, and UV-cured systems. Our technical team can assist in ensuring compatibility with your specific formulation.
Will it affect the colour or finish of my coating?
No. Biomaster is formulated to be invisible once incorporated, so it won’t alter the appearance, clarity, or texture of your final product.
Is Biomaster safe for human contact?
Yes. Biomaster is non-toxic, non-leaching, and approved for use in a wide range of consumer, industrial, and medical applications. It complies with key regulatory frameworks including EU BPR and EPA standards.
What testing supports Biomaster’s performance?
Biomaster has been independently tested to international standards including ISO 22196 and JIS Z 2801 for antibacterial activity. Custom testing can also be provided for specific applications on request.
How do I start using Biomaster in my coatings?
Simply contact our team to discuss your product and coating system. We’ll guide you through additive selection, formulation support, compliance requirements, and marketing considerations.
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
