Sean Bentley - May 4, 2020

Using ACM For Antibacterial Finishes

Did you know that one of the biggest reasons for using aluminium composite material is because of its antibacterial properties?

Since the spread of COVID-19, the world has suddenly become extremely concerned about their health and safety overnight. Face masks, hand sanitiser, self-isolation and excessive hand washing has changed the world’s perception of harmful bacteria that can’t be seen with the naked eye.

But even pre-pandemic, bacteria was a safety precaution that many architects, developers and interior designers took into account when doing their work. Considering that we spend approximately 90% of our lifespan indoors and that bacteria is one of the leading causes of disease, it’s no wonder there is a need to look for a material that can address and reduce the harmful impact bacteria can have. ACP is both the answer and solution.

According to ScienceDirect, the indoor environment is of key importance for human health and well-being because of the amount of time we spend indoors, and also due to the combination of health and safety threats encountered on a daily basis.

For that reason, antibacterial ACPs are used in homes, hospitals, playschools, pathological labs, nursing homes, clinics, public buildings, ablution facilities, kitchens, swimming pools, changing rooms, beauty parlours, salons, fitness clubs and spas. The best suitable places to use ACP are in public places where bacteria can cause harm to large groups of people and spread easily. 

Using anti-bacterial materials are extremely important for human health

Before this pandemic, the majority of our population would move from home, into their cars or public transport, and straight into another indoor facility at work. This means that for almost our entire day we are exposed to a magnitude of microbes, bacteria and germs that are not visible under normal viewing conditions. Not to mention that according to new research studies, indoor air pollution can be much more problematic than outdoor pollution.

If you’re not familiar with the negative effects of indoor bacteria, there have been countless studies on the detection of disease-causing microbes pathogens from hygiene critical environments such as hospitals. The consequences these microbes have on human health have also been studied and the impacts are frightening. It’s also one of the reasons why individuals around the world invest in humidifiers and ventilation systems that clean indoor air.

Considering the impact of microbes, bacteria and germs, technology and building materials also play a major role in ensuring greater resistance to bacteria. Especially the use of ACP in particular. 

Could the key to human health be as simple as using better materials when building our indoor spaces?


Antibacterial ACP used in hospitals

A great example of how ACP can be used for its anti-bacterial properties is the use of this material in hospitals. Hospitals have many concerns about germs and bacteria, and without strict measures in place, could mean the difference between a life saved or a life lost.

One of the solutions to these concerns is having anti-microbial construction materials, like wallboards, paint, insulation, faucets, and flooring. At Blend, we have recently come up with their new range of Anti-Bacterial ACPs, known BLEND AB+. 

These ACPs are 99.99% effective against harmful bacteria like MRSA, E.coli, Salmonella, and Legionella, as well as black mould growth, biofilm, and fungi. The special silver ion coating of these ACPs offers greater resistance to bacterial growth on the surface. These ACPs are especially ideal for interiors that are more vulnerable to bacteria and microbes, like hospitals and healthcare centres.

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The benefits of Blend AB+ Antibacterial ACPs

Whilst there are many benefits of using antibacterial ACPs, our specially designed formula is particularly beneficial in the following ways.


Blend AB+ adds to the durability of ACPs since it has cleared the 10-year accelerated ageing test. It doesn’t lose its anti-microbial property after any abrasions and remains unaffected by cleaning materials.

Protection against microbes

Using this formula can ensure the protection against a range of bacteria including E.coli, MRSA, salmonella, legionella, black mould, biofilm and fungi, stopping the growth of bacteria across the material.


Blend AB+ does not have any kind of additives which can cause health and environmental concerns, such as nano-silver, triclosan or other organic anti-microbial additives. AB+ coated ACPs are safe for mothers-to-be, infants and toddlers.

Care and Maintenance

These ACPs require little to no maintenance and harmful chemicals are not needed when cleaning it either. 

How does Blend AB+ ACP work?

Well, BLEND AB+ prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi and is effective against a number of microbes. Silver ions are also embedded in the coating material and are released through ambient moisture. Blend AB+ is also coated with antibacterial agents so that the surface has strong fighting power against germs, helping to inhibit the activity and growth of microorganisms, kill them and create a clean environment.

For more clarity, below is an image illustrating exactly how Blend AB+ and ACP work against microbes.


Where to get started

Thank goodness for materials like antibacterial ACPs that can add an extra few layers of protection against harmful bacteria. Luckily there are endless choices with ACP, and hundreds of different uses for it too.

Would you like to get started with BLEND AB+? Our aluminium composites come with an attractive guarantee. Chat to us and we will help you find the right ACM for your project, or get a quote today.

Written by Sean Bentley