SiShield

Case Study: Shielding a Grocery Chain with SiShield’s SiS AM75

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 16:13:21 GMT

Overview: the problem with odor-causing bacteria in food retail

In the food retail industry it is imperative to maintain a clean, fresh smelling environment. Foul odors from food rot and other bacterial sources could indicate unsanitary conditions that lead to major outbreaks. To protect brand image and maintain customer confidence in food safety, retailers should include antimicrobial treatments during their regular cleaning routine that target odor-causing bacteria and fungus (mold and mildew). This case study examines how a major U.S. grocery chain (operating over 1,800 store locations) tackled the invisible and ever-present threat of microbes. By deploying SiShield’s SiS AM75 antimicrobial surface protectant across all crucial areas of its supermarkets, they gained peace of mind for both staff and customers. The results showcase why grocery stores should consider SiShield’s technology as a cornerstone of their cleaning regime.

A bottle of SiShield's SiS AM75 sits on the counter ready for use by the retail workers.

Challenge: invisible contaminants in grocery stores

Grocery stores provide an ideal environment for bacteria to spread. Fresh meats, unwashed produce, and high foot traffic create constant opportunities for cross-contamination. Even with diligent cleaning (think of employees wiping down counters and carts throughout the day), microbes are often too small to eliminate completely. In fact, nearly 75% of consumers are increasingly worried about exposure to bacteria in their everyday environments. Not surprisingly, cleanliness is a common factor among the top-rated supermarkets—shoppers associate a “clean” store with feelings of safety and quality. Yet the threat of germs lingers beyond what the eye can see. A University of Arizona study found 72% of sampled shopping carts had more fecal bacteria (coliforms) on them than the number found in public restrooms. This startling statistic underlines how traditional cleaning alone may not be enough to safeguard grocery environments.

For the grocery chain in this case, the stakes were painfully clear. Any hint of unsanitary conditions due to odors or molds could cause costly store closures to allow for thorough deep cleaning. The grocery retailer had experienced close calls in the past – including isolated contamination issues that nearly forced temporary store closures – and wanted to prevent any future incident before it could occur. The challenge was set: how to maintain an uncompromising level of cleanliness across thousands of store locations, beyond what regular cleaning and periodic deep sanitization could achieve.

A scanning electron micrograph shows rod-shaped bacteria (magnified over 10,000×). These invisible pathogens can easily

hitch a ride on surfaces in grocery stores, from produce bins to shopping cart handles. Once present, bacteria can multiply quickly

under the right conditions.

Solution: continuous protection with SiShield’s SiS AM75

To address this challenge, the grocery chain turned to SiShield Technologies for an advanced, long-lasting antimicrobial solution. The company implemented SiShield’s SiS AM75, a cutting-edge surface treatment that creates an invisible barrier that inhibits the growth of odor causing bacteria and fungi (mold and mildew). SiS AM75 is an EPA-registered, water-based formulation that creates a durable microbiostatic coating on surfaces. In simple terms, once applied to a surface, it forms an invisible layer that inhibits the growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew 24/7. Unlike traditional disinfectants (which kill bacteria only at the time of use and evaporate quickly), SiS AM75 bonds to surfaces and will not wash off or lose effectiveness even with regular cleaning. This provided the grocery chain a way to “engineer in” constant microbial defense between normal cleaning and disinfectant cycles. When used hand-in-hand with traditional disinfectants, SiS AM75 prolongs the protection against microbes.

Implementation : The retailer’s team worked with SiShield to roll out SiS AM75 treatment across all high-touch zones in each store. SiS AM75 can be used in conjunction with traditional sanitizers and disinfectants to maintain antimicrobial inhibition in between cleaning cycles. Application of SiS AM75 was straightforward and did not require major operational downtime for the retailer. The product was applied in all crucial areas where bacteria are known to thrive. Store staff could spray or wipe the solution on to clean surfaces after hours, allowing it to dry and bond to the treated surface. The treatment is odorless, colorless, and non-leaching. Additionally, SiShield’s formulation contains no heavy metals or harsh chemicals, relying instead on a gentle yet effective organosilane quaternary ammonium (SiQuat) compound. Once in place, the coated surfaces essentially became shielded: any microbes landing on them would be continuously inhibited between routine cleanings, greatly minimizing the chance for bacteria to survive or multiply. By mid-2024, the chain had completed treating all departments in all of its stores with SiShield’s SiS AM75. They also incorporated the bacteriostatic treatment into their standard operating procedures – for example, reapplying the coating on a scheduled basis (such as quarterly or semi-annually) to ensure continuous coverage, and including SiS AM75 treatment as part of the protocol whenever a new store opens or new equipment is installed. This systematic approach effectively created an invisible safety net over every store, working behind the scenes. SiShield’s technology allowed the retailer to move from a purely reactive stance (dependent on nightly sanitizing and occasional deep cleans) to a proactive, always-on defense.

Results: safer stores and peace of mind

The impact of SiS AM75 was apparent almost immediately. In the 18+ months since implementation, not a single store in the chain has had to close due to an odor-induced sanitization incident – a marked change for a business that had previously seen periodic closures or extensive sanitation events whenever an issue was suspected. By being proactive, the retailer avoided the immense costs associated with recalls, medical claims, and legal actions (cost that could be in the millions). By comparison, this chain’s investment in preventive technology was a fraction of those potential costs. Equally important, the company preserved its brand reputation for quality and safety. Customers shopping at these supermarkets continued to see well-stocked, clean stores without worrying about scary outbreaks. This consistency reinforces trust – after all, consumers tend to equate a clean, safe environment with a reliable retailer. Internally, store employees and managers expressed greater confidence in daily operations, knowing an extra shield of protection was working around the clock.

Even with routine sanitizing of surfaces like shopping cart handles, traditional cleaning can miss lingering bacteria. By contrast, the built-in antimicrobial coating of SiS AM75 keeps these high-touch surfaces continuously protected, filling the gaps between manual cleanings. This system’s approach to hygiene greatly reduces the microbial load on critical touchpoints. Overall, the introduction of SiShield’s antimicrobial technology has proven to be a game-changer for the grocery chain - one where science and innovation reinforce cleaning protocols to stop problems before they start. What’s more, these benefits were achieved without adding burdensome routines or harsh chemicals to the stores’ operations. The antimicrobial treatment works silently in the background, so customers only notice the outcome (clean, fresh-smelling stores) rather than the process. For grocery executives weighing the ROI, the case has been clear-cut: the cost of implementing SiShield’s SiS AM75 is negligible compared to the potential cost of temporarily closing the store for deep cleaning to root out the odor caused by microbes.

In summary, this case study demonstrates why SiS AM75 is a smart investment for grocery stores and other retailers striving to uphold the highest sanitation standards. By stopping the spread of microbes, the technology helped one retailer avoid sanitation disasters and maintain the public’s trust in its brand. In an era of heightened awareness around public health and sanitation, SiShield provides grocery businesses a powerful competitive edge – the ability to confidently promise a safer, cleaner shopping experience for everyone.

Sources: The information and results above are based on the described retailer’s implementation and publicly available data on antimicrobial technologies and food safety. Supporting references include consumer research and industry studies on supermarket cleanliness, bacteria prevalence on surfaces, and the economic impact of foodborne illness: Microban® blog on supermarket antimicrobial protection, CDC and FDA reports, SiShield’s product documentation for SiS AM75, and news of food industry outbreak costs. These sources reinforce the critical need for proactive measures like SiShield in grocery environments and validate the success seen in this case.

Introducing Miracle Freshᵀᴹ Plus Odor-Control Technology

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 14:50:08 GMT

SiShield's Dual-Action Textile Treatment

Atlanta, GA, Oct. 28, 2025 – SiShield Technologies, a leader in innovative textile treatment, announces the launch of Miracle Fresh ^TM Plus , a dual-action odor-control and moisture wicking technology.

Miracle Fresh ^TM Plus is a water-based odor management system that contains a natural, biodegradable, and non-toxic odor absorption technology. It neutralizes foul smelling odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as volatile fatty acids, thioalcohols, and amines caused by sweat and other body odors. It does this by capturing the smelly compounds before the odor can saturate the textile. The sequestered odor compounds are then washed away during laundering without any loss of the treatment from the surface of the textile. Miracle Fresh ^TM Plus is durable for the life of the garment; there is no loss of anti-odor potency after 20 home launderings no decrease in anti-odor potency. This anti-odor treatment is designed to keep clothes smelling fresher longer!

Additionally, Miracle Fresh ^TM Plus is inherently hydrophilic, conferring wetting and wicking properties to the treated textile even after laundering. The built-in moisture-wicking properties are ideal for high performance fabrics, allowing for better body temperature regulation during high impact athletic activities.

“We’re excited to debut this innovative textile treatment that combines both odor-control and moisture management properties,” said Dr. Torie Ford, head of R&D at SiShield Technologies. “Miracle Fresh ^TM Plus allows us to offer our customers a streamlined solution for high-performance clothing, all while maintaining the highest of standards to ensure the best experience for the consumer.”

Miracle Fresh ^TM Plus is applied during normal textile manufacturing process, including pad application, exhaust, and spray coating. It is a non-ionic technology that is compatible with many other textile treatments, allowing for “stacking” of chemistries for high-performance textiles. This technology provides long-term freshness, a soft hand, and good wicking properties to any treated fabric.

Beware of Mold Living Inside Your Mattress

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 15:12:56 GMT

Last month, The US Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of 48,000 mattresses sold exclusively at Costco due to the risk of mold exposure. Mold is a serious matter as it can lead to health risks, as CNN reported, especially “for consumers with compromised immune systems, damaged lungs or a mold allergy.”

Turns out, mold accumulation on and within mattresses is extremely common. Moisture is the perfect breeding ground for mold spores, and mattresses create a welcoming home for such fungal growth. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that most likely the recalled mattresses were exposed to water during the manufacturing process, but mold and mildew can also grow on and within mattresses in warm and humid conditions, in rooms with poor ventilation, and because of body heat, sweat and liquid spills.

The Costco mattress recall dealt with the issue early, but often mold buildup is invisible…until it’s not. Warning signs of mold and mildew mattress contamination include musty and foul smells, stains, dampness, black spots. And these unpleasant microbes could be making you sick, from respiratory issues, congestion, and cough, to rashes, sores, and red, stinging eyes.

Antimicrobial formulations that inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew and other microbes, are extremely effective solutions for mattresses. But there’s a caveat - with such close proximity to humans, it is essential that the antimicrobials are non-toxic and safe for people. SiShield Technologies is committed to Sustainable Chemistry, and our water-based earth and human-friendly antimicrobial solutions are non-toxic, safe, durable and effective. Our formulations create an invisible protective seal that keeps surfaces cleaner and fresher, inhibiting microbes without harsh chemicals. Talk to us about how we can work with you, so you and your customers can sleep better at night.

The dangers of silver-based antimicrobials in textiles

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 20:37:40 GMT

Silver ions have long been known to inhibit bacteria growth, and numerous textile manufacturers have incorporated silver-based antimicrobials in their fabrics to protect against odor and keep items fresher. Turns out, however, nanosilver particles have been proven to leach out of fabrics during washing, polluting the environment and potentially harming human health.

A powerful article in The Conversation details the dangers of using silver: “Multiple studies have reported that nanosilver leaches out of textiles when they are laundered. Research also reveals that nanosilver may be toxic to humans and aquatic and marine organisms . Although it is widely used, little is understood about its fate or long-term toxic effects in the environment.”

SiShield antimicrobial solutions are water-based, earth and human-friendly, and silver and zinc-free. We follow the Principles of Sustainable Chemistry and this focus has guided us since our inception. SiShield's formulations are an effective and innovative alternative to toxic and harmful antimicrobials available on the market today. Talk to us about how we can create a customized – and safe – solution for you today.

Tread Lightly: Hospital Floors are Loaded with Bacteria

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 18:48:40 GMT

Invisible Threats Are Under Your Feet

We know that surfaces that are touched by hands are often loaded with infection-causing pathogens, but did you know that flooring, especially in hospitals, can also harbor bacteria and other harmful microbes?

According to a story published in Very Well Health based on a report in The American Journal of Infection Control, germs on hospital floors are so potent they can cause illness. And they are highly transferable -- in fact, 57% of contaminated objects in contact with the floor, such as shoes, socks, and even wheelchairs - transferred pathogens (bacteria) to hands.

SiShield antimicrobial solutions perfectly integrate with cleaning products, adding a powerful layer of invisible protection that inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microbes. Our earth-friendly water-based formulations are non-toxic and extremely effective, and keep surfaces 99.9% cleaner than untreated surfaces. Contact us to talk about how we can work with you.

APM Partners with SiShield Technologies With ConShield Next-Gen Sewer Pipe and Manhole Structure Treatment

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 14:50:34 GMT

ConShield Exclusively Integrates SiShield Antimicrobial Solutions for Enhanced Protection against Microbial-Induced Corrosion in Sewer Infrastructure

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill., Oct. 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- APM, one of the largest sewer protective additive companies in the United States, is excited to announce its exclusive partnership with SiShield Technologies, a creator of cutting-edge antimicrobial solutions, for its ConShield products. ConShield products protect sewer pipes from the rampant corrosion commonly observed in municipal sewers, identified as Microbial Induced Corrosion (MIC). MIC manifests when aerobic bacteria, mainly Thiobacillus, grow on concrete surfaces in wetted areas and above flow lines, converting O2 and H2S gas into sulfuric acid. This reaction leads to swift concrete dissolution. SiShield's safe, effective, and sustainable antimicrobial formulations integrate seamlessly with ConShield products, creating an invisible protective seal that inhibits the growth of bacteria and other destructive microbes.

ConShield products fight sewer pipe degradation and contamination. As an EPA-registered antibacterial agent, ConShield prevents MIC by effectively inhibiting the growth of T. bacteria, often thriving in sanitary sewer structures. ConShield's unique composition allows it to molecularly bond with the concrete matrix, permeating the entire thickness of the concrete, be it a pipe, manhole, liner, or poured structure. Unlike other treatments, ConShield cannot wash off, peel off, delaminate, or form pinholes, making it the most reliable, long-term protection solution for concrete in municipal sewers.

ConShield offers a fortified defense against the bacterial processes that produce harmful sulfuric acid in sewer systems

By partnering with SiShield, ConShield offers a fortified defense against the bacterial processes that produce harmful sulfuric acid in sewer systems. This collaboration ensures that the microbial processes, which have often been misunderstood as merely a "gas problem," are addressed at their root, targeting the dangerous acid production when hydrogen sulfide gas interacts with Thiobacillus bacteria. Further, SiShield Technologies is committed to Sustainable Chemistry, and its water-based solutions are non-toxic, non-leaching, and do not harm the environment or people.

ConShield, known for its rigorous standards in sewer treatment, sees this partnership as a significant value-add for its customers and stakeholders, including pre-casters, municipalities, and Departments of Transportation. "SiShield's innovative solutions integrate perfectly with ConShield's technology, creating long-lasting, safe, and durable protection for sewers and manhole structures across the country," said Harley B. Kaplan, CEO of Waterline Renewal Technologies, the parent company of APM. "Together, we can extend the life of concrete used in sewer applications and stop premature degradation."

"Our partnership with APM and ConShield underlines our commitment to create a cleaner, safer, healthier world. Their reputation for excellence in infrastructure treatment complements our cutting-edge antibacterial solutions, ensuring a more resilient urban ecosystem," said SiShield's Chief Technology Officer, Greg Montello.

Together, ConShield and SiShield protect our municipal and private sewer infrastructures against relentless MIC threats. With ConShield, factors like temperature, effluent retention time, high biological oxygen demand levels, and turbulence - which often contribute to rapid bacterial growth - are now more effectively managed. As APM and SiShield continue to innovate and push boundaries, their shared goal remains clear: to provide communities with the safest and most effective to provide communities with the safest and most effective antimicrobial solutions to protect our infrastructure.

About Waterline Renewal Technologies:

Waterline Renewal Technologies is a leading provider of products, technologies, and services in the trenchless rehabilitation industry in the United States. We deliver trenchless rehabilitation of degraded infrastructure through differentiated products, technologies and services, to prevent inflow and infiltration of drain, sewer and stormwater systems. Waterline Renewal Technologies' subsidiaries include APM (including product brands ConShield, CentriPipe and Permacast), LMK Technologies, Perma-Liner Industries, LightRay, and Pipe Lining Supply. Waterline Renewal Technologies Corporate Headquarters is in Elk Grove Village, IL with distribution facilities across the United States. To read more go to www.waterlinerenewal.com .

About SiShield Technologies:

SiShield Technologies is the industry-leading chemical technology company providing effective, durable, and safe antimicrobial solutions. SiShield specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of science-based products that create an invisible, protective barrier. SiShield's patented and EPA-registered formulations, integrated during the manufacturing process, have advanced the antimicrobial space, creating powerful, environmentally friendly products under its SiShield and Miracle Fresh ingredient brands.

SiShield partners with distributors and manufacturers across industries—including chemical additives, building material manufacturers, textiles, healthcare, and consumer goods—to develop customized solutions for our customers' unique applications and needs. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the company sources its materials in the United States, develops formulations in-house, and operates globally. For more information, please go to www.sishield.com .

For media inquiries, please contact:

Waterline Renewal Technologies
Morgan Dietsch
mdietsch@waterlinerenewal.com
(727) 422-4879

SiShield Technologies
Stephanie Tuck
press@SiShield.com
(917) 968- 9886

Smartwatch Wristbands Need Antimicrobial Protection

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 18:30:34 GMT

In the age of wearable tech, Smartwatches have become a functional part of our daily lives. Along with convenience, however, a recent study published in the Advances in Infectious Disease Journal from researchers at Florida Atlantic University shows that their wristbands are a breeding place for harmful bacteria.This research reveals that wristbands, due to their constant contact with skin and exposure to diverse environments, are hot spots for microbial growth, increasing risks associated with skin infections and other health concerns.

And the statistics are startling -- 95% of the Smartwatch wristbands tested harbored bacteria, with watches worn during exercise showing the highest accumulation of pathogens, including Staphylococcus and E. Colli bacteria.

Materials also matter: "Plastic and rubber wristbands may provide a more appropriate environment for bacterial growth as porous and static surfaces tend to attract and be colonized by bacteria," Nwadiuto Esiobu , a professor of biological sciences at the university, said in a statement.

SiShield antimicrobial formulations are the perfect partner for Smartwatch wristband manufacturers. Our solutions are easily incorporated at the point of manufacture and act as an invisible defense by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microbes on almost any surface and substrate, including plastic and rubber. Our durable, safe, and effective formulations also keep wristbands cleaner, and longer. For more information, go to SiShield.com.

SiShield Technologies Announces Rebrand and Website Refresh

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 17:51:16 GMT

SiShield Technologies rebrands, highlighting its commitment to Sustainable Chemistry

ATLANTA, GEORGIA, UNITED STATES, September 21, 2023 / EINPresswire.com / -- Today, SiShield Technologies, a leader in antimicrobial solutions, is thrilled to unveil its refreshed brand identity and website ( www.sishield.com ), underscoring the company's unwavering commitment to Sustainable Chemistry and its mission to create a cleaner, safer, healthier world. This rebranding initiative mirrors SiShield's evolution and its dedication to providing non-toxic and powerful antimicrobial solutions that cater to the customized needs of a range of industries, including textiles, healthcare, building materials, and chemical partnerships.

Since its inception, SiShield Technologies has been at the forefront of developing revolutionary antimicrobial systems that are safe,effective, and durable. SiShield’s formulations and products are integrated during the manufacturing process and are based on a silane compound (Si- QAC) created by SiShield’s founder, Jacques Elfersy. Elfersy discovered he could modify almost any surface on a molecular level, creating an invisible coating that offers unmatched protection against harmful microbes, including bacteria, viruses, mold, and mildew.

A trusted innovator with unmatched sector expertise, SiShield has advanced the antimicrobial industry, developing a range of easily integrated solutions, products, and compounds applicable to almost every surface and substrate. SiShield’s patented and EPA-registered technology is the basis for the company’s two brands: SiShield antimicrobial solutions, providing protection against harmful microorganisms, and Miracle Fresh, providing long-lasting freshness and odor reduction.

"Our rebranding is not just a change in aesthetics; it's a reaffirmation of our core values and our promise to our partners and customers. We are dedicated to the principles of Sustainable Chemistry, and our solutions are not only effective but also safe for both people and the planet," said Greg Montello, Chief Technology Officer. “At SiShield, we are constantly working to formulate new applications and uses that will further protect public health.”

SiShield’s revamped brand identity will be showcased across various platforms and events, highlighting SiShield's commitment to its partners and customers. The company's new website provides a comprehensive overview of its innovative formulations and chemistry, reflecting the myriad benefits it offers to businesses across the globe.

About SiShield Technologies:
SiShield Technologies is the industry-leading chemical technology company providing effective, durable, and safe antimicrobial solutions. SiShield specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of science-based products that create an invisible, protective barrier. SiShield’s patented and EPA-registered formulations, integrated during the manufacturing process, have advanced the antimicrobial space, creating powerful, environmentally friendly products under its SiShield and Miracle Fresh ingredient brands.

SiShield partners with distributors and manufacturers across industries—including chemical
additives, building material manufacturers, textiles, healthcare, and consumer goods—to develop customized solutions for our customers’ unique applications and needs. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, the company sources its materials in the United States, develops formulations in-house, and operates globally. For more information, please go to www.sishield.com .

Stephanie Tuck
SiShield Technologies
+1 917-968-9886
press@sishield.com

How often should you wash your towels?

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 19:29:00 GMT

Towels are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, even after one use. An article on cnn.com sites information from Manal Mohammed, senior lecturer of medical microbiology at the University of Westminster, who shares that “Damp, used towels in moist bathrooms encourage microbial growth.” She continues: “Although most of these germs are often harmless, some of them (including Staphylococcus bacteria) can cause infection and health problems, especially in people with skin wounds and immuno-compromised people.”

Read the full story here: https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/02/health/washing-towels-how-often-wellness/index.html

SiShield antimicrobial solutions inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microbes. reduce odor, and keep textiles cleaner between washing. Our safe, effective and durable formulations are incorporated during manufacturing and won't change the look and feel of your product.

The Textile Industry's Green Revolution

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 14:21:21 GMT

Sustainable Fabrics Benefit People and the Planet

The textile industry, a cornerstone of global manufacturing, is undergoing a significant transformation. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, there's a growing emphasis on sustainable fabrics and textiles. This shift is not merely a trend but a response to both environmental imperatives and evolving consumer demands.

The Environmental Imperative: Historically, the textile sector has been a major contributor to environmental degradation. It's estimated that the industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions and remains the second-largest industrial polluter, second only to the oil industry. [1] This figure has catalyzed the industry's move towards more sustainable practices.

Consumer Demand Fuels the Shift: Today's consumers are not just passive buyers; they're informed stakeholders. A recent survey revealed that 50% of consumers ranked sustainability as a top 5 value driver and more than 1/3 are willing to pay more for sustainable benefits. [2]

Shoppers Are Loyal to Green Companies 87% of consumers have a more positive image of companies that support social or environmental issues, and 88% are more loyal to such companies. This growing consumer consciousness, especially among millennials and Generation Z, is driving the demand for sustainable textiles, pushing manufacturers to align with these preferences. [3]

SiShield - the innovative leader in safe, effective and durable antimicrobial solutions - has formulations that easily integrate into almost any surface and substrate at the point of manufacture without changing the look or feel of the product. Committed to Sustainable Chemistry, our powerful eco-friendly antimicrobial additives are non-migrating, non-leaching and durable. Read more at SiShield.com .

Resources:
[1] UN Environment: The Price of Fast Fashion .

[2] https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211014005090/en/Recent-Study-Reveals-More-Than-a-Third-of-Global-Consumers-Are-Willing-to-Pay-More-for-Sustainability-as-Demand-Grows-for-Environmentally-Friendly-Alternatives

[3] Cone Communications CSR Study

Mold and Mildew: The Destructive Aftermath of Hurricanes

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 14:20:30 GMT

Building Materials with Antimicrobials Protect Property and Save Lives

Hurricanes and other natural disasters leave behind a trail of destruction, but one of their most insidious impacts is the proliferation of mold and mildew in affected structures. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), damp and moldy environments following floods and heavy rains can lead to a variety of health issues, including severe respiratory problems. [1] Additionally, the rapid growth of mold and mildew post-disaster poses not only health risks but also threatens the structural integrity of buildings.

Building materials, when exposed to prolonged dampness, become susceptible to mold and mildew infestation. Over 60% of homes in hurricane-affected areas show signs of mold growth, leading to extensive damage and costly repairs.

Antimicrobial technology – an essential protective factor Innovative solutions in construction materials can protect against these microbial threats. Antimicrobial technology inhibits the growth of mold, mildew, and other harmful microbes, ensuring safer, healthier, and more durable structures. Use of antimicrobial chemistry during remediation provides better performance.

The economic implications of using antimicrobial building supplies are profound. By preventing mold and mildew damage, these treated materials can significantly reduce repair and health-related costs, offering significant savings, as well as increased functionality and peace of mind for customers.

As we grapple with the increasing frequency of hurricanes and their aftermath, mold and mildew-resistant building materials are a necessity. SiShield , a pioneer in antimicrobial solutions, offers technologies that can be seamlessly integrated into building materials – such as flooring, insulation, wood, concrete, paint, roofing - at the point of manufacture, providing safe, durable, and effective protection against such microbes, ensuring that structures remain both safe and resilient against the aftermath of natural disasters.

[1] CDC - Mold After a Disaster

The Biggest Trend in Textiles: Antimicrobial Benefits

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 19:24:15 GMT

Consumer Demand Meets Sustainability

The textile industry has witnessed a significant surge in the demand for antimicrobial textiles, with increased consumer awareness for products that protect their health and hygiene. Here's a comprehensive look at why antimicrobial textiles are becoming increasingly popular:

Rising Market Value and Growth Projections : The Antimicrobial Textiles Market was valued at USD 10.7 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 14.7 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2021 to 2026. [1] This growth is attributed to the rising demand across medical textile and apparel applications.
Consumer Awareness and Hygiene: Driven by the COVID-19 pandemic and widespread awareness campaigns, consumers are becoming more informed about the potential dangers of microorganisms on textiles. Rising disposable income, changing lifestyles, heightened health concerns, and increasing focus on sustainability have all contributed to a heightened demand for antimicrobial textiles. These textiles offer a barrier against odor production, extend product life, and potentially protect against harmful microbes.
Odor-Control: Beyond Freshness: With projections showing the global sportswear market potentially touching $248.1 billion by 2026 [2] the demand for textiles with effective odor-control is clear. Today's consumers, including fitness enthusiasts, demand textiles that guarantee prolonged freshness, and they seek odor-reduction claims in the products they purchase. Cutting-edge non-biocidal odor-capture technologies are stepping up, ensuring odors are neutralized before they become a nuisance.
Treading the Path of Sustainability: While the spotlight is firmly on antimicrobial and odor-reduction, it's important to recognize that these innovations dovetail with sustainability. Textiles that last longer translate to reduced washing frequencies, culminating in water conservation, diminished energy utilization and carbon reduction. Further, odor-inhibiting technology extends product life and reduces landfill. As the industry forges ahead, these technologies will be instrumental.
Technological Advancements and Research: Continuous research and technological advancements in the textile industry are creating vast opportunities for the growth of the antimicrobial textiles market. The drive for new product development that is skin-friendly, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly is pushing manufacturers to innovate.

Resources:

[ 1. ] MarketsandMarkets

[ 2. ] Global Sportswear Market Forecast, 2026.

Invisible Threat: Bacterial Contamination

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 16:11:00 GMT

In 2022, Clorox recalled numerous Pine-Sol multi-surface cleaning products due to risk of bacterial contamination. The primary result of this potential contamination created a threat to public safety. Beyond that, the episode created not only a revenue drain for the company but also a blemish on brand reputation as the recall was widely covered by media, including this feature on CBS news .

This potential contamination could have been avoided. SiShield antimicrobial solutions inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microbes and are easily integrated into cleaning products and other chemical formulations at the point of manufacture without changing the look or feel of the product. Our safe, effective and durable solutions partner seamlessly with other chemical formulations, improving product performance and extending shelf-life.

Read more about SiShield's antimicrobial chemical partnerships here .