Antimicrobial coatings provide a surface that inhibits the growth of pathogens, which is why these types of coatings are being used throughout the biotech industry. Medical instruments are one of the most common applications for antimicrobial coatings. Antimicrobial coatings can also be used on healthcare facility surfaces, ensuring that critical areas like hospital beds and surfaces remain free from pathogens. Therefore, antimicrobial coatings are increasingly being used not just in healthcare delivery but also in biotech and especially in laboratories.
There is no one type of antimicrobial coating, and they can be customized for use in different settings depending on the tool or item that needs to be surfaced and the types of pathogens that are most likely to be encountered. Copper is a common antimicrobial coating, but specific alloys have been developed to address the needs of clients in the biotech and medical industries. Antimicrobial coatings are being used more and more to retrofit older facilities and immediately used in new builds to coat commonly used areas like door knobs and light switches. Similarly, antimicrobial coatings can be used in healthcare facilities to reduce pathogens in targeted environments like food preparation areas.
One of the long term and indirect benefits of antimicrobial coatings is their ability to reduce the use of harsh chemical cleaners that would otherwise be relied upon to kill pathogens. Not only does this mean a cleaner, less toxic work environment, but also a higher level of environmental ethics and sustainability in the business. Also, the use of antimicrobial coatings on instruments and work surfaces means less time and money spent on cleaning and disinfectant. While there is still no substitute for traditional hand washing, antimicrobial coatings offer a certain extra layer of protection. Antimicrobial coatings are one of many types of protection against pathogens, and can be used in conjunction with other methods.
