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The status quo and challenges of domestic and foreign antibacterial materials and their application technology industry development
The current status and challenges of domestic and foreign antibacterial materials and their application technology development have become a key focus in the field of material science. This report, presented by Dr. Li Bizhong, explores both global and Chinese advancements in this sector.
Dr. Li Bizhong is a Ph.D. supervisor and research fellow at the Institute of Physical and Chemical Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, and also serves as Chairman of Beijing Lofty Nano Technology Co., Ltd. He is located at Room 2407, Kefang Building, Beijing Chemical Industry Research Institute, West Gate, Tsinghua, Haidian District, Beijing, 100084. You can reach him via phone: 010-62654047 (Fax), 62654497, or by email.
**1. Development of Foreign Antibacterial Materials and Their Application Technologies**
Antibacterial materials are primarily composed of antibacterial agents—chemical substances that target microorganisms like bacteria and mold. These agents are added in small quantities to conventional materials to create antibacterial products. They can be categorized into organic, inorganic, and natural types.
Organic antibacterial agents, such as traditional fungicides, are effective but often suffer from issues like toxicity, microbial resistance, poor heat stability, and migration. Natural antibacterial agents, while eco-friendly, tend to have limited heat resistance and narrow application ranges. In contrast, inorganic antibacterial agents offer long-term effectiveness, no drug resistance, and excellent thermal stability (up to 600–1000°C). Common components include silver, zinc, copper ions, and inorganic carriers like zeolite or hydroxyapatite. Silver ions, for example, are highly effective but prone to discoloration and high cost when used in large quantities.
The widespread use of antibacterial materials began during World War II, with German military uniforms treated to reduce infections among wounded soldiers. By the 1960s, antibacterial fabrics became popular in consumer goods. Organotin and chlorophenol compounds were commonly used. In the mid-1980s, quaternary amine salt silane agents emerged, improving the performance of antibacterial finishes.
In the 1980s, the development of antibacterial fibers ensured long-lasting antibacterial properties in textiles. These fibers were created by incorporating antibacterial agents directly into synthetic materials. Both organic and inorganic agents could be used, depending on the desired outcome.
With the rapid growth of the petrochemical industry, plastic products became essential in daily life. By 1997, global plastic production reached 135 million tons, growing by 5% annually. Antibacterial plastics found wide applications in household appliances, automotive parts, construction materials, and more. Europe and the U.S. mainly applied them in end-use products like toys and daily necessities, while Japan integrated antibacterial technology across various sectors, including home appliances, vehicles, and sanitary equipment.
Japan leads globally in inorganic antibacterial agent development. Major companies like Ishizuka Glass and Panasonic dominate the market, with over 80% market share. Sales of antibacterial agents in Japan reached 28 billion yen in 1999, with inorganic agents accounting for 6 billion yen. Prices dropped significantly from 12,000–13,000 yen/kg in 1994 to 7,600 yen/kg in 1999. Japan’s antibacterial plastic usage rose from 35,000 tons in 1996 to 74,000 tons (600 billion yen) in 1999, far exceeding levels in other regions.
In Europe and the U.S., organic antibacterial agents remain dominant. Companies like Ciba, Microban, and Dupont have been active in the field. However, recent trends show increased interest in inorganic alternatives.
New areas of application include sanitary ceramics, paints, and coatings. Japanese brands like TOTO and INAX have introduced antimicrobial products in bathroom fixtures.
It is estimated that Japan uses 100 units of antibacterial agents per capita, compared to just 1 in Europe and America, and 0.1–1 in China. Japan established the Antimicrobial Product Technology Agreement in 1993, with over 250 member companies involved in development, production, and application. According to predictions, the international antibacterial market will grow tenfold compared to its domestic market in the future.
**2. Development and Application of Antibacterial Materials in China**
Chinese scientists began researching antibacterial agents and materials over a decade ago. Institutions like the Northwest Nonferrous Metal Research Institute and the Kunming Institute of Precious Metals have explored inorganic antibacterial agents. Some companies, such as Anshan Yuyuan Antibacterial Agent Co., Ltd., have developed organic antibacterial agents. However, due to limited resources and late investment, China has struggled to build a comprehensive R&D system. Research results have remained scattered and lagged behind global standards.
Additionally, China's economic development has historically trailed that of Western nations, and living standards have not been high enough to drive significant demand for antibacterial products. Until the late 1990s, apart from some use in paint corrosion prevention, the application of antibacterial materials was nearly nonexistent. This highlights the need for greater investment and awareness in the field.