Agion, BASF to Address Demand for Natural Antimicrobials

Agion Technologies Inc., a leading provider of silver-based antimicrobial solutions, announced it has formed a multi-year, exclusive partnership with BASF AG, Germany, a leading producer of styrenics, to develop and commercialize styrene copolymers including BASF’s Luran S product line that will feature Agion’s naturally-safe, antimicrobial technology.

BASF’s copolymers are used in a markets such as household appliances, automotive, cosmetic packaging, building and construction, and consumer electronics. The partnership is initially focusing on the European market, according to reports, but a global rollout is envisioned in the near future.

“Our partnership with Agion gives us the ability to address the increasing demand from our customers for antimicrobial solutions,” said Peter Wolf, PhD, head of global innovation management for specialty polymers and foams, in a press announcement. “The unique product attributes of Agion’s natural, silver-based technology coupled with its expertise in partnering with leading organizations to introduce new products, from development to commercialization, make them the ideal partner.”

The incorporation of Agion antimicrobial technology into plastics is said to inhibit microbial growth on the surface of products. The technology provides continuous protection from microbes by releasing silver ions to the surface of the product at a slow and steady rate. This allows for the long-lasting protection of the product against the damaging effects of microbial growth.

“BASF recognizes the consumer draw for our natural, antimicrobial technology,” said Ginger Merritt, vice president of worldwide sales and marketing. “This partnership demonstrates our ability to partner with world-class organizations like BASF and continues to solidify our leadership position in antimicrobial technology.”

Agion’s antimicrobial technology has reportedly been approved for food and water contact by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and European Food Safety Association (EFSA) and is listed as an indirect food contact substance with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Agion’s product is also a notified existing substance under Directive 98/8/EC on European Biocidal Products Directive (BPD), says the company.