Advances in Nonfouling and Antimicrobial Coatings: Perspectives for the Food Industry

Microbial cross-contamination represents a significant burden to public health and food wasted due to microbial spoilage. Despite established protocols for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and advances in antimicrobial and nonfouling coatings research, the persistence of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms remains a challenge in food manufacturing. Specifically, the design and application of antimicrobial and nonfouling coatings in nonfood contact regions of food manufacturing facilities remain an area of research need as these regions are known microbial growth niches. In this review, we survey the state-of-the-art antimicrobial and nonfouling technologies compatible with polyurethane and epoxy coatings suitable for Zone 2/3 regions, such as drain ditches and equipment framework. The properties of polyurethane and epoxy coatings are discussed, followed by a detailed survey of antimicrobial and nonfouling compounds suitable for incorporation into polyurethane and epoxy polymerization chemistries. Challenges and opportunities in the application of antimicrobial and nonfouling coatings to Zones 2/3 are discussed, with an emphasis placed on the design of effective application studies.