Self-disinfecting Surfaces

15.05.2020

One of Fried’s reliable partners and suppliers Company for industrial paints is the company Haering GmbH, which has developed a new surface technology in March 2020. The new product HAERA® AntiMikrobiell Aktiv is an antimicrobial coating that creates a permanently self-disinfecting surface. Fried interviews the sales manager of Haering, Mr. Michael Zeitler, to find out more about this special new coating.

Good day Mr. Zeitler. Can you explain how the antimicrobial coating works?

Germs, viruses, spores and fungi are transferred to surfaces through contact. The photocatalyst in the coating starts to work by visible light and transmits the energy to the surrounding oxygen. Activated oxygen is created. This activated oxygen kills micro-organisms and disinfects the surface.

That means that a surface disinfects by itself through the coating.

Yes, by itself and only through the action of light and oxygen. The two-component coating system ensures basic hygiene, helps to close hygiene gaps between cleaning processes and can prevent further germs spreading.

Is this type of coating harmful for humans or for environment?

No, the coating is free of silver, copper and chemical biocides or toxins. The original material properties will also not be modified. The new surface system has been tested according to international standards.

Can you tell us relevant areas of application for this coating?

Healthcare and public institutions. There are enough application examples: On almost all paintable surfaces, hospitals and medical practices, medical equipment, public transport and public facilities, building equipment (e.g. railway stations, airports), schools and kindergartens, handrails and handles, profiles and switches, etc.

How long does the desinfective effect stay active?

The effect lasts up to four years. As soon as the effect diminishes, recoating is possible.

By how much can the germ load be reduced?

The highly frequented areas of ambulance, emergency and normal wards were tested with and without antimicrobial coating. The tests show a reduction of the germ load on coated surfaces to 1.9 CFU/cm² (hygiene limit value: 2.5 CFU/cm²) and a reduction of the risk of high germ loads by 48%. This effect can be controlled via light intensity and can cause disinfection of up to 99.99% within seconds.

Are there any special requirements to consider during production?

No special equipment is required in the production. The new paint system can be used for manual painting as well as for robotic painting. The coating is to be treated normally – just like any other coatings.

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