Pandemic Spurs Cross-industry Surge in Antimicrobial Resistance Coating Use
The antimicrobial resistance additives market has exploded in the last few months and is expected grow at exponential rates during the next year. Market analysts project the current $3.3 billion global antimicrobial coatings market to grow to anywhere between $5.6 and $7.4 billion by 2025.
A primary driver of this exponential growth is rising consumer awareness regarding health in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. Powder coat is a key player in the mix, these six factors illustrate why.
“Discerning consumers are raising the bar when it comes to the health and safety of their families and loved-ones. Prioritizing the health and safety of each person who uses your product or visits your facility gives both you and your customers added peace of mind.” Kenny Spielman, President of S&B Finishing.
6 Reasons for Antimicrobial Resistance Powder Coat’s growing Popularity
Health, safety and hygiene: Increased adoption of antimicrobial resistance powder coating by the healthcare industry in both temporary and permanent facilities during the COVID 19 pandemic has been a chief driver its growth in popularity over the past months. These coatings contain antimicrobial agents that protect surfaces from micro-organisms such as bacteria, parasites, fungi and germs. Quite literally, an antimicrobial coating adds an extra layer of protection—not only protecting the product or equipment to which it’s applied but everyone who uses it.
The coating mitigates the spread of infectious disease, first by inhibiting the growth of microbes on the surface and secondly by being more hygienic and easier to sanitize. Such factors are paramount in any healthcare setting where Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) are an ongoing concern.
Yet beyond healthcare, rapid adoption in other industries such as heating, air conditioning and ventilation (HVAC) is linked to rising investment towards the reduction of the global COVID-19 spread and increasing demand for safety in public settings.
Versatility and cross-industry adaptability: While traditionally found in the machinery, automotive and consumer appliance industries — powder coat can be applied to such a wide variety of metal or metal-based surfaces that it’s a viable option in practically any industry.
Antimicrobial powder can go nearly everywhere regular powder can. For example we’ve recently seen increased use in HVAC equipment such as ducts and vents; railings and seatbacks in public transportation and doors, benches and counters in public buildings, exercise equipment in gyms and health clubs; and benches and playground equipment in parks and school grounds.
Concerned consumers are not only expecting surfaces in the public sector to be sanitary, they’re beginning to demand the additional safety of antimicrobial coatings on the components they use in their homes, automobiles and workplaces.
Value, cost-effectiveness and increased lifespan: The high performance of powder coatings is undebatable. Long lasting and high color-durability at comparatively cheaper cost are cited by Meticulous Research as responsible for the exponential growth expected in the powder antimicrobial coatings market over the next five years.
Cost effectiveness comes from companies not being forced to replace parts or equipment as soon due to the increased lifespan powder lends a product. Antimicrobial properties augment longevity by making the product less susceptible to damaging microbes which deteriorate the surface material.
Multiple application options and accessibility: While large manufacturers may do their coating in-house, everyone else can look for an accessible solution with a custom coater like S&B Finishing.
Although we can’t speak for other shops, we know that at S&B customers can have a custom antimicrobial powder formulated to their specifications. A second option is applying a clear coat antimicrobial powder on top of a regular powder color or a previously coated piece. A just-released alternative that’s up to 40% less expensive than option one, is an additive that simply adds antimicrobial properties to another coating.
Sustainability and reduced environmental impact: Compared to liquid antimicrobial finishing, powder coat has a much better green footprint, which some analysts believe gives it a greater growth potential over upcoming years. Its low or zero VOC emission rating is making powder the favored choice among various end users, such as material manufactures, automotive OEM and component manufacturers.
Additionally, when a surface has antimicrobial properties, less cleaning products are needed to disinfect and sanitize that surface. This cumulatively reduces the quantity of harsh cleaning agents used in the public arena along with the negative environmental and health impact associated with these chemicals.
Transmits message of genuine concern for customers: Companies, organizations and brands are incorporating antimicrobial powder coat into the manufacture of their products or purchasing equipment with this added protection out of genuine concern for their customers’ health and safety.
This message of care helps build trust and long-term loyalty at a time when consumers are carefully observing which businesses are willing to go the extra mile to protect their health and well-being.
“Discerning consumers are raising the bar when it comes to the health and safety of their families and loved-ones. Prioritizing the health and safety of each person who uses your product or visits your facility gives both you and your customers added peace of mind.” Kenny Spielman, President of S&B Finishing.
For more information on Antimicrobial Resistance and Powder Coatings, please read: Coatings that Battle Germs: Antimicrobial Finishing and More