Good Chemistry Lives Here - What Are Antimicrobials?

What Are Antimicrobials?

Almost everywhere you look, you can find microorganisms, or microbes, living organisms too small to be seen with the naked eye. While some microbes are good and important to many ecosystems, others can cause serious illnesses. That’s why we rely on the “good chemistry” of substances known as antimicrobials.

Antimicrobials, also known as biocides, prevent the growth and spread of unwanted microbes. We rely on a class of antimicrobials known as disinfectants to kill many disease-causing viruses (like the flu), bacteria (examples include E. coli and salmonella), fungi (such as mold) and other microbes before they can make you and your family sick. Disinfectants are used in hospitals, homes, schools, and countless other spaces to help kill germs, treat drinking water, ensure products last longer, and keep manufacturing processes running safely. As you can see, these good chemistries touch many aspects of our daily lives.
LEARN WHERE ANTIMICROBIALS ARE USED

Sustainability

Think about the woodworking throughout your home. It’s important that it is protected from decay caused by mold and mildew (these are microbes!) that can breakdown wood and other materials. Other materials or products are susceptible to deterioration or spoilage from certain microbes if they are not protected. Protection is the role of antimicrobials. Antimicrobials are used to preserve products and extend their shelf lives. By helping products and materials last longer, antimicrobials play an important role in promoting sustainability reducing waste.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW ANTIMICROBIALS SUPPORT SUSTAINBILITY

Behind the Scenes

Microbes can also damage or slow many manufacturing and industrial processes. Microbial growth can damage machinery, which can threaten worker safety and production. Antimicrobials are used to keep processes, such as paper manufacturing, metalworking, and oil and gas extraction, running smoothly and safely by preventing the buildup of unwanted bacterial growth in industrial processes.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW ANTIMICROBIALS ARE USED BEHIND THE SCENES OF INDUSTRY

Antimicrobials, Antibacterials, Antibiotics – Are They All the Same?

Antimicrobials, antibacterials, antibiotics – they’re all the same, right? Although these sound similar, there are distinct differences between these chemistries.

Antibiotics are antimicrobials but not all antimicrobials are antibiotics. Antimicrobial medicines used to treat or prevent bacterial infections in humans or animals are antibiotics. And, while antibacterial products prevent the development of bacteria, antimicrobials have a broader spectrum and can kill and stop the spread of bacteria, fungi, and some viruses. This website focuses on antimicrobials that control harmful microbes on inanimate objects and surfaces.