Silver News

Rubber tubing and parts used in laboratories and factories are prone to bacterial build-up because the material offers an ideal source of nutrients for germ growth. Traditionally, manufacturers have imbedded the rubber with chemicals that inhibit such growth, but these chemicals leach out over time leaving the tubing unprotected. In addition, the chemicals may leave an unpleasant taste or odor in the products being manufactured.

Now, Milliken Chemical of Manchester, England, has patented a line of rubber products especially suited for food industry processes, called Elastoguard, that incorporates silver ions into the rubber that not only prevent bacteria but stay effective for the life of the component.

According to the company, Elastoguard prevents the growth of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts on rubber parts, while avoiding challenges that organic biocides have posed in the past, even when the rubber parts are used in warm, moist environments rich in microorganisms - conditions that are ideal for the growth of germs. The ion-imbedded products not only prevent illnesses from bacteria but cut costly cleaning downtime and disassembly. Even if parts are scuffed or worn, the protection remains as more silver-ions come to the surface.

The company has obtained regulatory registrations around the world for its Elastoguard family of antimicrobial rubber compounds for contact with food and potable water, and for use in medical devices.

Silver News - Fourth Quarter 2003