Keraben Grupo and Microban launch partnership for antimicrobial surfaces

The Spanish ceramic manufacturer has signed an agreement with exclusive rights in Spain for the production of tiles with Microban antimicrobial technology.

Keraben Grupo (Nules, Castellón) has signed an agreement with Microban International for the exclusive production in Spain of ceramic floor and wall tiles with Microban SilverShield^® antimicrobial technology. Close collaboration between the two companies has led to the development of Lifeker Plus+, an innovative ceramic glaze that gives surfaces proven antimicrobial protection thanks to its ability to inhibit the growth of odour-producing bacteria.

Microban^® technology, based on silver ions, is incorporated into the product during the manufacturing process and distributed uniformly throughout the molecular structure. This creates an antibacterial shield that works 24/7 without the need for sunlight or UV radiation, and ensures a high level of hygiene while extending the effectiveness of regular cleaning routines.  

Lifeker Plus will be manufactured solely and exclusively for Keraben Grupo, which is already using it in its Superwhite range and plans to expand its availability into other tile collections for a variety of applications (interiors and exteriors, residential, commercial and healthcare), especially in wet and very hot environments. The antimicrobial effectiveness of Lifeker Plus+ remains unchanged for the tile’s entire lifetime. It is certified by independent laboratories and complies with international standards (ASTM E3031-15, ISO 22196 and JIS Z 2801).

Owned by UK-based multinational Victoria PLC, Keraben Grupo operates under the Keraben, Metropol and CasaInfinita brand names and has two factories with an annual production capacity of more than 12 million sq.m of tiles. It has a workforce of more than 600 employees and posts annual revenues of around 120 million euros, 80% of which is generated by exports to more than 125 countries.

Microban International is the global leader in antimicrobial technologies and odour control solutions and partners with more than 250 brands and manufacturers worldwide. The biocidal active components of Microban^® SilverShield^® technology are registered with the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and included in the European Union’s Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR).