A durable, potent, and rechargeable antimicrobial polymer for modular conveyor belts.

Food-borne illness remains a top concern within the food processing industry. This phase I Small Business Innovation Research projectputs forth a set of technical objectives and a series of tasks that when completed wil result in a product that will significantly impact food safety. Using patent-pending antimicrobial technology, we will create a rechargeable antimicrobial polyethylene material introducable at a marketable cost. This material will be fast acting against major food-borne pathogens, yet safe and stable for food and humans. Furthermore, the treatment will not deleteriously compromise the mechanical properties of the base material. Completion of the phase I project will lay a solid foundation to transmission to the phase II development. By following a structured commercialization plan, phase II will establish design, material, and process parameters for phase III commercialization. Future applications may extend into a variety of adjacent areas of food safety,animal health, and beyond.