The Need for Surface Cleanliness is at an All-Time High

Protect your printed products with antimicrobial film

Through no fault of our own, we humans tend to be hard on the surfaces we touch. Even if we apply gentle pressure, the sweat, oils and bacteria on our fingertips end up on whatever we touch, causing slow, yet inevitable degradation of the material on the receiving end. The environment, rife with humidity, airborne particles, microbes and more, is no kinder. And then there’s the continual wiping and cleaning with chemicals that we do to cleanse those touched surfaces. It’s a wonder that surfaces in our built world last at all.

Until, that is, you factor in antimicrobial (AM) film that’s also high abrasion and chemical resistant.

At DuraTech, we use a variety of films to meet the specific needs of our customers, and AM film is certainly one that fulfils a growing desire among OEMs for a super tough, yet flexible, surface that can withstand vigorous cleaning with harsh chemicals, as well as minimize microbes on the surfaces of devices touched by many different people, from gym equipment and medical devices to quick serve restaurant menus.

While the technology isn’t new – DuraTech has been printing on AM film and similar products for more than a decade – applications for the material are growing exponentially with increasing public focus on cleanliness and surface hygiene practices across all industries.

One particular film that stands out is Autotex AM, produced by MacDermid Enthone, a global leader in film coating technology.

Autotex AM film is a textured polyester film that’s proven to be high abrasion and chemical-resistant. The film is coupled with second surface printability for both surface and graphic protection, and is widely used in human interface (HMI) applications such as hospital bed controllers. “In fact, any device that employs membrane switches, from industrial equipment to home appliances, could benefit from incorporating the film,” said Paul Hetlam, DuraTech’s Sales Manager.

Because it’s cleanable and durable, Autotex AM allows for the more frequent and rigorous cleaning regimes required in today’s environment. With a surface that’s treated with built in antimicrobial protection from Microban®, Autotex AM also helps surfaces remain cleaner in-between cleans. Microban® is a proven antimicrobial technology that’s distributed evenly throughout the film’s textured hardcoat to help fight microbial growth. “It’s important to note,” Neil Bolding, Technical Manager at MacDermid Enthone, advised, “that products containing built-in antimicrobial technology (often referred to as treated articles) are heavily regulated. While treated article claims of guaranteed efficacy may be attractive to manufacturers, they’re not always compliant and could result in substantial penalties and reputational damage.”

In other words, know with whom you’re dealing before entering into contracts with AM film suppliers. “DuraTech has had a longstanding relationship with MacDermid,” said Hatlem. “We’ve used their products for more than 25 years; they’re a consistently good, reputable and easy-to-work-with manufacturer.”

In addition to the antimicrobial benefits offered by Autotex, OEMs also will be interested to learn that the film has good heat stability, meaning it can be handled and processed and still maintain its integrity.

“That’s key,” said Bolding. “Usually, the more crystalline a polymer is (Autotex is made of polyester), the more difficult it is to handle. It can shatter on the edge and can be difficult to cut. Autotex, on the other hand, has been stretched on both axis to provide a tough plastic that’s chemically resistant, embossable and flexible, and is resistant to the abrasive nature of constant wiping and cleaning.”

And there’s more. Not only is Autotex tough, but “it has a nice, non-abrasive, feel,” Bolding added. There are no particulate fillers that could obscure transparent or frosted surfaces, thereby allowing clear and bright light and/or graphics to display.

Find out more today

Surface cleanliness has never been more important than it is today. If you’re looking for an antimicrobial solution for your surface technology that can withstand our society’s expectations as well as our new and scrupulous cleaning practices, contact DuraTech today at 608-781-2570.

Microban® antimicrobial product protection is limited to the product itself and is not designed to protect users or others from disease-causing microorganisms or viruses. Normal cleaning and hygiene practices should be maintained. Microban International, Ltd. makes neither direct nor implied health claims for products and surfaces containing Microban® antimicrobial product protection. Microban® is a registered trademark of Microban Products Company.