PPG Earns R&D 100 Awards for Antimicrobial, Antiviral Paints

PPG (Pittsburgh, PA) announces two of its antimicrobial and antiviral products have been recognized with 2022 R&D 100 Awards in the Mechanical/Materials category. The Copper Armor antimicrobial paint by PPG with Corning Guardiant technology and Comex Vinimex Total antiviral and antibacterial paint are both being honored with the award.

“At PPG, our teams are always looking for new and innovative ways to address our customers’ biggest challenges,” said David Bem, PPG vice president, Science and Technology, and chief technology officer. “In some cases, that means developing new capabilities in house. Others require strong partnerships with well-respected organizations, such as Corning. We’re incredibly honored to be recognized for products that have helped provide an added layer of protection amid the ongoing pandemic.”

Copper Armor paint is intended for application in high-traffic areas, including health care, hospitality, office and educational environments, but the paint is also suitable in residential applications. Powered by Corning Guardiant technology, it contains naturally occurring copper that is known to have antimicrobial efficacy. The paint is said to continuously kill viruses and bacteria, including SARS-CoV-2, within two hours of contact with the painted surface for up to five year based on the Protocol for the Evaluation of Bactericidal Activity of Antimicrobial Coated Surfaces test method. The protocol states that given the integrity of the surface is not compromised and is subject to a comprehensive infection control and hygiene program, the paint provides up to five years of protection. This provides a safeguard against harmful microbes on walls, trim and doors. Copper Armor paint also provides a mold- and mildew-resistant coating on the dry paint film.

“Development of Corning Guardiant began several years ago with the belief that copper's inherent qualities can deliver a truly effective antimicrobial coating solution,” said Joydeep Lahiri, division vice president and program director of Specialty Surfaces at Corning. “We’re excited about our partnership with PPG as well as the company’s Copper Armor paint, which helps make antimicrobial surface technology more readily available to the public.”

Comex Vinimex Total antiviral and antibacterial paint is shown to kill 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, including flu and SARS-CoV-2, on the dry paint surface within two hours. The paint was developed in response to growing trends in health and well-being and increased consumer awareness of paint’s role in creating a safe and healthy environment. It is ideal for use in high-traffic facilities, such as hospitals, schools and nursing homes. In addition to its award in the Mechanical/Materials category, Comex Vinimex Total antiviral and antibacterial coating was awarded the R&D 100 Bronze special recognition for battling COVID-19.

The PPG Spraymaster portable spray system was also recognized as a 2022 R&D 100 Award finalist. Specifically designed for exterior woodwork, the system is up to 50% faster compared to brush or roller applications, providing quick drying and solid opacity in one layer.

The R&D 100 Awards Committee and R&D World magazine honor 100 of the most innovative technologies and services of the past year with the R&D 100 Awards. PPG has earned 34 R&D 100 Awards through the years.