In our lives, bacteria are like invisible little demons, everywhere. They float in the air, lurking on the surface of the object, looking for opportunities to enter the human body and causing diseases. In order to fight these little demons, antibacterial technology has gradually entered our horizons. So, what’s the mystery of antibacterials? Antibacterials are the processes by which the growth and reproduction of bacteria are suppressed by certain means, thereby reducing the harm to human health caused by bacteria. Unlike microbicides, antibacterials do not completely eliminate bacteria, but rather control their quantity and activity, making it difficult for them to thrive.
Antibacterials are key “weapons” for antibacterials. Common antibacterial agents are of various types, where inorganic antibacterial agents, such as silver ion antibacterial agents, have strong antibacterial capabilities. Silver ion is able to function precisely on the cytowalls and cellular membranes of bacteria, causing damage to their structure, so that the substance in the cells is leaking like a flood of a broken embankment, so that the growth and reproduction of bacteria is severely inhibited. Organic antibacterial agents are chemical reactions to proteins or enzymes in bacteria, which, like “mechanicals” in bacteria, make it “treads” that prevent them from functioning properly and thus achieve antibacterial effects. Natural antibacterial agents, such as shell-polymal sugar, have the advantage of good biological compatibility and safety and are widely used in areas where safety requirements are high, such as food packaging and medical materials. These antibacterial agents are ably integrated into plastics, textiles, coatings and so on, giving them the magic magic of antibacterial resistance. In the case of anti-bacterial plastics, for example, the addition of anti-bacterial agents in the manufacture of plastics has turned the plastic surface into a “no-go” for bacteria. When the bacteria fall on it, the antibacterial agents quickly “offfire” or disrupt the structure of the bacteria or interfere with their physiological functions, making it difficult for the bacteria to survive and reproduce. In the medical field, the application of anti-bacterial techniques is known as “health guards”.
Medical equipment in hospitals, facilities in wards, etc., can significantly reduce the risk of cross-infection if antibacterial materials are used. For example, anti-bacterial surgical devices, which are effective in preventing bacterial contamination during the operation, protect the life of the patient by protecting him/her; anti-bacterial curtains, sheets, etc. in the ward, reduce the exposure of the patient to bacteria and facilitate his/her rehabilitation. Anti-bacterial products are also everywhere in family life. Antibacterial hand-washing liquids can remove bacteria from hands while hand-washing and for a period of time continue to inhibit the re-emergence of bacteria; antibacterium sheeting can avoid bacterial contamination of food during cutting. In food packaging, anti-bacterial packagings are like a layer of “protective armour” for food. For foods that are susceptible to deterioration, such as fresh meat, fruits and so on, antibacterial packaging can reduce bacterial erosion, extend the shelf life of foods, reduce the waste of food and ensure food security. However, antibacterial techniques are not universal. We need to pay attention to a number of issues when using anti-bacterial products. On the one hand, it is important to select products that are produced by formal manufacturers and meet national standards. Some products in the market are called anti-bacterial, but they are not well known, and consumers need to learn to look at product detection reports and certification signs to avoid being deceived. On the other hand, antibacterial products need to be properly used and maintained. For example, anti-bacterial clothing, although anti-bacterial, can be significantly less effective if it is worn for long periods without cleaning, stains and bacterium accumulation.
The mystery of antibacterial technology opens a door to healthy life. Through the rational use of antibacterial products, we can effectively reduce the threat of bacteria in our daily lives, bring health closer to us and truly achieve health within reach.
