Anthony Locicero, Associate editor03.31.21
AGC Chemicals Americas introduced Fluon+ EM-20010 compounds, ready-to-use materials that the company said inhibits the growth of viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19.
They are an ideal material for extruded film applications that benefit from antimicrobial properties such as coverings for high-touch surfaces like walls, doors and tables at facilities such as hospitals, schools, office buildings, hotels, entertainment venues and restaurants, according to AGC Chemicals.
Fluon+ EM-20010 compounds are formulated from melt-processible copolymers composed of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) and a specialty additive that safely blocks bacterial and viral growth. The compound is sold in pellet form and can be tailored to incorporate other resin systems or meet a customer’s required antimicrobial properties.
Plastic film laminates made with Fluon+ EM-20010 compounds are more cleanable and durable than other surface coverings that are not ETFE-based.
The material has excellent transparency and will not yellow over time, according to AGC.
It resists abrasion and harsh chemicals and is nonflammable.
The base resin is FDA-compliant for Food Contact Notification (FCN) 1914.
Independent lab tests according to ISO Standard 22196 demonstrate that Fluon+ EM-20010 compound reduced the number of E. coli bacteria on the test surface by 99.999% over 24 hours.
It also reduced the number of S. aureus bacteria by 98.51% over that same period, AGC said.
Preliminary lab tests for the COVID-19 virus according to ISO Standard 21702 demonstrate that EM-20010 eliminates up to 96% in one hour, according to AGC.
