Plastics
Plastics & Polymer-Based Materials
Onnovo supplies robust antimicrobial additives such as OBPA, Zinc Pyrithione, Silver-based antimicrobials, and BIT, formulated to protect polymers from microbial degradation. We begin by thoroughly understanding your application, ensuring we recommend the RIGHT CHEMISTRY.
Understanding Plastics, Composites & Rubber Materials & Their Microbial Risks
Plastics, wood-plastic composites (WPC), elastomers, and rubber materials are widely used in construction, automotive, packaging, medical, and industrial applications. While these materials are chosen for their durability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, they can still face significant microbial challenges that impact performance, longevity, and hygiene.
Key Microbial Challenges in Plastics & Rubber-Based Materials
- Biofilm Formation & Surface Contamination – Bacteria, fungi, and mold can colonize plastic surfaces, leading to staining, odors, and material degradation.
- Material Degradation & Weakening – Certain microbes secrete enzymes that break down plasticizers, affecting the mechanical properties of the material.
- Moisture Retention in Composite Materials – Wood-Plastic Composites (WPC) and rubber materials can absorb moisture, leading to mold and fungal growth.
Industrial & Medical Hygiene Concerns – Gaskets, seals, and polymer components in industrial and healthcare environments require continuous antimicrobial protection to prevent contamination.
Types of Construction Materials & Their Antimicrobial Needs
Different building materials require tailored antimicrobial strategies to prevent contamination, extend longevity, and maintain aesthetics.
| Material Type | Common Applications | Microbial Risks & Required Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Thermoplastics (PP, PE, PVC, ABS, PC, PET) | Consumer goods, packaging, medical devices | Surface contamination, biofilm formation, odor resistance |
| Wood-Plastic Composites (WPC) | Decking, furniture, flooring, cladding | Fungal & mold growth, discoloration, structural weakening |
| Rubber & Elastomers (EPDM, NBR, Silicone, TPE) | Gaskets, seals, industrial hoses, footwear | Bacterial colonization, microbial-induced degradation |
| Thermosetting Plastics (PU, Epoxy, Polyester, Bakelite) | Coatings, adhesives, molded components | UV & microbial resistance, long-term stability |
| High-Performance Polymers (PTFE, PEEK, LCP) | Automotive, aerospace, medical implants | Antimicrobial coatings, biofilm resistance |
Risks of Microbial Contamination in Plastics & Rubber Materials
Without proper antimicrobial protection, plastic and rubber-based materials can experience:
- Discoloration & Surface Damage – Mold and bacteria cause staining, aesthetic degradation, and loss of transparency.
- Weakened Material Integrity – Microbial degradation weakens plasticizers and composite structures, shortening product lifespan.
- Odor & Hygiene Issues – Bacteria and fungi produce unpleasant odors, affecting consumer goods, medical applications, and industrial components.
- Regulatory Compliance Challenges – Certain industries (e.g., medical, food contact, construction) require antimicrobial-treated plastics to meet safety standards.
Microbial Challenges in Different Plastic & Rubber Applications
Plastics and rubber materials are used in diverse industries, each with specific microbial risks.
Building & Construction (e.g., WPC Decking, Cladding, Flooring, Pipes)
Primary Risks:
- Outdoor exposure accelerates mold, algae, and UV degradation.
- High moisture environments lead to fungal decay & microbial staining.
Onnovo’s Solution:
- Mold-resistant additives for WPC, PVC, and composite materials.
- UV-stabilized antimicrobial treatments to extend product durability.
Medical & Healthcare (e.g., Polymer Medical Devices, Seals, Tubing, Gaskets)
Primary Risks:
- Bacteria & biofilm formation on polymer surfaces can lead to cross-contamination.
- Certain rubber components (e.g., gaskets, seals) require continuous microbial resistance.
Onnovo’s Solution:
- Silver-based antimicrobial additives for permanent surface protection.
- Non-toxic biocidal treatments for medical-grade polymer applications.
Consumer Goods & Packaging (e.g., Food Packaging, Plastic Containers, Household Items)
Primary Risks:
- Microbial contamination of plastic surfaces affects food safety and hygiene.
- Odor retention and product degradation reduce consumer appeal.
Onnovo’s Solution:
- Food-safe antimicrobial coatings for plastic packaging.
- Odor-control biocides for long-term freshness and hygiene.
Automotive & Industrial Applications (e.g., Seals, Insulation, Coatings, Hoses)
Primary Risks:
- Microbial-induced corrosion (MIC) in fuel lines, cooling systems, and industrial seals.
- Bacteria buildup in polymer-based air filters affecting HVAC efficiency.
Onnovo’s Solution:
- Biofilm-resistant additives for rubber gaskets & industrial hoses.
- Long-lasting antimicrobial treatments for high-exposure automotive parts.
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Onnovo’s Services & Support for our Customers
Onnovo provides expert antimicrobial solutions for plastics, composites, and rubber materials, ensuring long-term protection, regulatory compliance, and enhanced product performance.
Onnovo ensures compliance with global regulations for antimicrobial-treated polymers:
- EPA (US) – Biocidal regulations for treated plastics
- BPR (EU) – Biocidal Product Regulation for polymer applications
- FDA (US) & EFSA (EU) – Food-contact plastic safety
- ISO 22196 – Antimicrobial plastic performance testing
- ANVISA (Brazil) & Asian polymer safety regulations
We work closely with manufacturers to develop tailored antimicrobial solutions, ensuring:
- Microbial resistance without impacting plastic performance.
- Enhanced longevity in high-moisture and UV-exposed environments.
- Compatibility with various polymer processing techniques (extrusion, injection molding, etc.).
Onnovo’s state-of-the-art testing facilities ensure:
- Broad-spectrum protection against bacteria, mold, and fungi.
- Long-term performance in different environmental conditions.
- Validation of antimicrobial efficacy according to industry standards.
Onnovo supports green innovation by developing low-VOC, non-toxic antimicrobial solutions, ensuring:
- Safe, sustainable antimicrobial protection for recyclable plastics.
- Eco-friendly alternatives for traditional biocides.
Our R&D team provides expert guidance on:
- Formulation troubleshooting for microbial stability.
- New antimicrobial solutions for next-generation plastics & composites.
- Optimization of antimicrobial integration in polymer manufacturing.
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