The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved MicroGuard antimicrobial copper alloys with public health claims. Based on extensive efficacy testing, these health claims acknowledge that clean MicroGuard surfaces kill 99.9% of harmful bacteria* within two hours of exposure.

After more than four years of research and development, PMX is pleased to introduce a portfolio of MicroGuard antimicrobial copper materials and component hardware which have been designed for touch surfaces in hospitals, schools, public and residential buildings.  

MicroGuard alloys have been developed by combining durable lead-free metals with the active ingredient of copper to produce a broad range of structurally strong antibacterial alloys. MicroGuard antimicrobial copper alloys are engineered materials with a unique combination of properties that can be used to kill disease-causing bacteria*. Unlike a coating, the antimicrobial efficacy of MicroGuard metal will last for the life of the product that is made from the MicroGuard material.

Available in many finishes and textures, we supply both MicroGuard antimicrobial copper alloys and component hardware for installation in all types of public and residential buildings. MicroGuard alloys have been designed to be as strong as the stainless steels used in architectural products.

MicroGuard antimicrobial copper alloys do not contain hazardous metals such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, or hexavalent chromium. Depending on the specific alloy, all of our MicroGuard materials contain between 35% and l00% recycled content. These are some of the factors that establish our operation as a very sustainable process that protects the health and safety of our employees and mitigates environmental impacts.

Typical MicroGuard Antimicrobial Copper Applications

The EPA has approved MicroGuard alloys for over 100 touch surface applications including those listed below:

• Hospital bedrails and footboards
• Medical IV stands
• Grab bars
• Carts
• Handrails
• Elevators
• Door knobs and handles
• Door push plates and kick plates
• Light switches and plates
• Sinks and faucets
• Countertops and tabletops

The EPA Stewardship Program is administered by the Copper Development Association.

*Testing demonstrates effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter aerogenes, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.