Control of biocidal properties conferred to polymers by dry ozone exposure for achieving inactivation of B.atropaheus spores

Surfaces of materials can be modified to ensure specific interaction features with microorganisms. Polymeric surfaces subjected to dry gaseous ozone acquire the ability to inactivate microorganisms, including those as resistant as bacterial spores [1]. However, the inactivation efficacy level depends strongly on the type of polymer considered: for instance, polymers such as silicone, polyurethane and polystyrene provide high inactivation rates, while polypropylene and polymethylmetacrylate are particularly inefficient; polyethylene and Teflon show no biocidal activity at all [2]. The originality and advantages of this ozone treatment of polymer surfaces rest on its simplicity (achieved at ambient temperature and pressure, a one step process) and its efficacy.