Antimicrobial Polycarbonate (PC)
Hygienic PC Material for Medical & High-Touch Components
Antimicrobial PC is designed for applications where hygiene and durability must coexist. Unlike surface coatings, the antimicrobial function is
built directly into the polymer matrix, providing long-term effectiveness without wear-off.
Compared with standard PC, antimicrobial grades focus on bacterial growth inhibition, not sterilization, ensuring safer and cleaner surfaces in daily-use environments.
Antimicrobial System & Material Design
Antimicrobial PC utilizes inorganic antimicrobial agents that are evenly dispersed within the polycarbonate matrix.
Material Composition Overview
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Base Polymer: Polycarbonate (PC)
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Antimicrobial System: Inorganic antimicrobial agents
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Antibacterial Mechanism: Contact-based inhibition
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Durability: Permanent, non-migrating
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Optional Additives:
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Heat stabilizer
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UV stabilizer
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Impact modifier
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Color Options: Natural, light colors, customized
This formulation ensures antimicrobial performance throughout the product lifecycle.
Core Advantages: Hygiene with Engineering Reliability
Functional Advantages
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Long-Lasting Antimicrobial Performance
Effectively inhibits common bacteria on plastic surfaces. -
Non-Leaching & Durable
Antimicrobial agents do not migrate or wear off. -
Reduced Cross-Contamination Risk
Suitable for high-touch environments. -
Maintained Mechanical Properties
Retains PC’s inherent impact resistance and strength.
Engineering & Commercial Advantages
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No secondary coating required
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Compatible with standard injection molding
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Stable performance after repeated cleaning
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OEM-ready for regulated applications
Typical Application Areas
Medical & Healthcare
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Medical device housings
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Diagnostic equipment covers
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Hospital equipment components
Public & High-Touch Surfaces
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Door handles & panels
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Elevator components
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Public control interfaces
Consumer Electronics
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Handheld device housings
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Touch-sensitive enclosures
Processing Performance & Injection Molding Guidelines
Antimicrobial PC processes similarly to standard PC with proper drying control.
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Melt Temperature: 260–300 °C
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Mold Temperature: 90–120 °C
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Drying: 120 °C for 3–4 hours
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Injection Speed: Medium
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Shrinkage: 0.4–0.6%
The antimicrobial function remains stable under normal processing conditions.
Technical Specification – Antimicrobial PC
| Property | Test Standard | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ISO 1183 | 1.18–1.22 g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength | ISO 527 | 60–70 MPa |
| Notched Izod Impact | ISO 180 | 6–9 kJ/m² |
| Heat Deflection Temp. | ISO 75 | 130–145 °C |
| Antimicrobial Effectiveness | ISO 22196 | ≥99% |
OEM / ODM Customization Capabilities
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Antimicrobial strength tuning
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Light-color & appearance-optimized grades
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UV-resistant outdoor versions
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Compliance-oriented formulations
FAQ
Q1: Is Antimicrobial PC a sterilizing material?
No. It inhibits bacterial growth but does not sterilize surfaces.
Q2: Does antimicrobial performance wear off over time?
No. The antimicrobial agents are integrated into the material matrix.
Q3: Is Antimicrobial PC safe for medical applications?
Yes, it is widely used in medical and healthcare equipment housings.
Q4: Can Antimicrobial PC withstand frequent cleaning?
Yes. Performance remains stable after repeated cleaning cycles.
Q5: Can Antimicrobial PC be customized for OEM applications?
Yes. Antimicrobial and mechanical properties can be tailored.
