Compounds with an additive that blocks bacterial and viral growth have been developed for extruded film applications.

Fluon⁺ EM-20010 from AGC Chemicals Americas is formulated from melt-processable copolymers composed of ethylene and tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) along with a specialty additive that reportedly inhibits growth of the COVID-19 virus as well as other viruses and bacteria. The ready-to-use materials are suitable for coverings of high-touch surfaces such as walls, doors, and tables at hospitals, schools, office buildings, hotels, entertainment venues, and restaurants, said AGC.

The compound is sold in pellet form and can be tailored to incorporate other resin systems or to meet a customer’s required antimicrobial properties.

Plastic film laminates made with Fluon⁺ EM-20010 compounds are more cleanable and durable than other non-ETFE-based surface coverings, according to AGC.

The transparent material will not yellow over time, resists abrasion and harsh chemicals, and is nonflammable. The base resin is FDA-compliant for Food Contact Notification (FCN) 1914.

Independent lab tests conducted according to ISO 22196 demonstrate that Fluon⁺ EM-20010 compound reduced the number of E. coli bacteria on the test surface by 99.999% over a 24-hour period. It also reduced the number of S. aureus bacteria by 98.51% over that same time period. Preliminary lab tests for the COVID-19 virus according to ISO 21702 demonstrate that EM-20010 eliminates up to 96% of the virus in one hour, according to AGC.