Plastics
LIFE prevents the deterioration of polymer itself by controlling and eliminating the cultivation and growth of microorganisms on surfaces. The antimicrobial technology is compounded into pelletized polymer carrier systems. These pelletized masterbatches can be mixed with plastic resin and molded into plastic products or extruded into film, sheets or fibers.
LIFE active antimicrobial compounds can be incorporated into virtually all polymers, including:
Common plastics and uses
Polypropylene (PP) — Food containers, appliances, car fenders (bumpers)
High impact polystyrene (HIPS) — Refrigerator liners, food packaging and vending cups
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) — Plumbing pipes and guttering, shower curtains, window frames, flooring, and building materials
Polyurethanes (PU) — Cushioning foams, thermal insulation foams, surface coatings, and leather coatings
Polyethylene (PE) — Wide range of inexpensive uses including supermarket bags, bins, trolleys, plastic bottles
Polystyrene (PS) — Packaging foam, food containers, disposable cups, plates and cutlery
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) — Electronic equipment cases (e.g., computer monitors, printers, keyboards), drainage pipes, appliances
Polyamides (PA) or Nylons — Fibers, toothbrush bristles, fishing line, under-the-hood car engine moldings
Polycarbonate (PC) — Compact discs, eyeglasses, riot shields, security windows, traffic lights, lenses, protective cases
Polycarbonate/Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (PC/ABS) — A blend of PC and ABS that creates a stronger plastic used in car interior and exterior parts
Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs) – A lower cost replacement for traditional rubber, these materials are often utilized in flexible films, seal materials and molded consumer goods where tactile feel is a benefit
LIFE offers a wide range of organic and inorganic antimicrobial additives compatible with all polymers and manufacturing processes, and effective against an array of microrganisms including mold, mildew, algae and bacteria which can prematurely degrade products.
- Injection molding
- Compression molding
- Roto molding
- Extrusion
- Blow molding