Bolidt Synthetic Products & Systems and independent Dutch research organization TNO have carried out various tests on antimicrobial flooring systems, which employ a  new bactericidal technique. The first lab experiments show great promise, according to a press release.

Bolidt said it has developed a range of synthetic flooring systems for the healthcare sector that kills bacteria by electrocution.  The company also supplies flooring to cruise ships.

Whereas currently available antibacterial (paint) systems are based on a chemical technique to prevent the spread of multi-resistant bacteria, according to Bolidt its systems are based on a patented mechanical AM-Inside technology.

The bactericidal effect is a process, by which the bacterium is killed as soon as it comes into contact with the floor surface due to the inherent difference in electrical charge between the floor surface and the bacterium itself. As a result, the multi-resistant bacteria cannot reproduce and survive. Large contact surfaces are thus protected against the growth and spread of bacteria.

“Since it is precisely the flooring that poses a major risk of spreading multi-resistant bacteria, this development will help hospitals and medical centres make a huge step forward in their fight against multi-resistant bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Methicilline-resistant Staphylocuccus aureus (MRSA),” said Commercial Director Ruud van der Sloot.

“The first series of lab experiments have shown that the bactericidal formula in the Bolidt flooring systems is effective against a large number of multi-resistant bacteria,” he continued. “In addition, the bacteria cannot become resistant. The tests and lab experiments conducted at TNO and in Bolidt’s own laboratory have reached an advanced stage, but a number of final tests remain to be done. We are also developing the same technology in our specialist hygienic wall systems for the healthcare sector.”