Antibacterial Sponge Rubber and Its Manufacturing Process

Technology Overview

Sponge rubber made by converting natural latex into a foam has a wide range of industrial applications. Traditional sponge rubber lacks antibacterial properties, making it susceptible to germ accumulation and thereby limiting its applications, particularly in the production of items that come into direct contact with users.

Zinc oxide (ZnO) has an antimicrobial activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. It has been used in various industries such as cosmetics, agriculture and healthcare due to its low cost. Studies have shown that coating fiber with ZnO/polymer composites can provide 95% protection against bacteria.

Based on extensive research demonstrating the antimicrobial properties of zinc oxide, antibacterial sponge rubber has been developed. It is created by incorporating a composite of ZnO and calcium carbonate into rubber latex, along with a gelling agent before processing into various forms of rubber products such as mattresses and pillows.

Key Features & Benefits

· Antibacterial sponge rubber can be processed into a variety of products that require an antibacterial property such as mattress and pillows.
         · Value addition to natural latex.

Researcher(s)

Dr. Yeampon Nakaramontri
         Ms. Apinya Krainoi
         Ms. Kanokwan Poomputsa
         Mr. Ekwipoo Kalkornsurapranee
         Mr. Raymond Lee Nip
         Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, KMUTT

IP Status

Petty Patent No. 2103001967

Contact

Intellectual Properties and Technology Transfer Section
         Research, Innovation and Partnerships Office (RIPO)
         Tel: 02-470-9626
         Email: tto@kmutt.ac.th