4MED: Why is it so special?

Organic and inorganic deposits can build up on surfaces creating ideal conditions for bacterial growth and biofilm development, despite repeated washing and cleaning. It can also severely impact the surface appearance, making it visually unattractive and unappealing.

Our research shows that 4MED creates a surface that inhibits soils and organisms adhering to it, that is easy to clean and which actively reduces the growth of bacteria. This will make the cleaning job easier for a variety of sectors and have a direct impact on cleaning costs.

4MED has been tested using realistic exposure scenarios by an independent laboratory using a series of innovative approaches based upon the Japanese Industrial Standard JIS Z2801: 2000. This standard tests anti-microbial activity and efficacy and has now received ISO accreditation, viz ISO 22196.

The tests undertaken were rigorous and reflect the importance that Nano Hygiene Coatings attaches to the evidence that substantiate our claims.

How realistic are these exposure scenarios? Bacteria will settle on a surface depending on a number of factors. In an air to surface environment, the most frequent cause is by splashes; whether by contaminated water / liquid or by a heavier soil such as a contaminated body or animal fluid. 4MED has been successfully tested under the same conditions; simulating real-life conditions.

How do you determine antimicrobial efficacy? 4MED has demonstrated that it inhibits the adhesion of organic bacteria. However, it has further proved to be quick acting and long lasting. This contributes to the lowering of risks associated with the harmful effects of bacteria.

The performance of many coatings will suffer as a result of antagonistic agents such as cleaning agents or from protein inhibitors, which block the release of the antimicrobial additive. 4MED has successfully demonstrated its robustness against these agents when subsequently testing against E coli and achieving good kill rates against all samples.

4MED is the result of an intensive development and testing program. The coating has proven to be effective on a variety of metal and ceramic substrates. The table below shows the results of a number of 4MED coated metal substrates tested against E Coli, using the test standard ISO 22196.