PolyOne WithStand Antimicrobial Technology

PolyOne Corporation is showcasing WithStand™ antimicrobial technology at the K 2010 exhibition (Hall 8b / Stand G46). This additive technology imparts antimicrobial characteristics to Class I, II, and III medical devices, medical packaging, and other healthcare and wellness related applications.
 
“Microbe growth is a serious problem in healthcare settings and manufacturers are looking for ways to combat surface microbe growth on plastic parts in medical devices, hospital furnishings, and other healthcare applications”, said Larry Johnson, PolyOne global healthcare marketing director.  “WithStand antimicrobial technology provides a safe, effective, durable built-in solution that inhibits microbe growth.”
 
Industry sources estimate that up to 100,000 deaths per year in the United States result from Hospital Acquired Infections (HAI). In addition, microbes such as fungi, algae, and bacteria can cause odor, staining, discoloration, and loss of mechanical properties in plastic substrates.
 

WithStand™ antimicrobial technology can be custom formulated with both organic and inorganic technologies that inhibit the growth of microbe strains. This capability enables the development of a customized “one stop” solution that can simplify the material selection and development process customers must navigate in order to meet performance and regulatory requirements. PolyOne WithStand™ solutions include assistance with additive choice and dosage; process, product, and specification development; and efficacy testing and claims development. These services reduce time to market and help to maintain quality levels for products that require antimicrobial protection.
 
Offered as a stand-alone additive concentrate or a built-in component in any of PolyOne’s family of healthcare compounds, WithStand™ antimicrobial technology delivers performance across a variety of resin types ranging from specialty engineered thermoplastics to vinyl compounds and thermoplastic elastomers, effectively battling growth of microbe strains known to cause HAIs and other problems in healthcare environments.
 
WithStand™ antimicrobial technology is the latest example of PolyOne’s commitment to its healthcare solutions portfolio targeted at specific performance and regulatory challenges faced by the healthcare industry. WithStand™ antimicrobial technology helps converters and OEMs more effectively grow their business and help their customers address some of the most pressing challenges.
 
About PolyOne
PolyOne Corporation, with 2009 annual revenues of $2.1 billion, is a premier provider of specialized polymer materials, services and solutions. Headquartered outside of Cleveland, Ohio USA, PolyOne has operations around the world. For additional information on PolyOne, visit our Web site at www.polyone.com.