AGXX® – An Innovative Technology to Prevent Microbial Contamination in Filtration Applications

Microorganisms, omnipresent in our daily lives, vary widely in their impact on human health. While many are harmless or beneficial, assisting in biological metabolic processes, others – including certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi – pose serious health risks, especially in water-based environments where they can multiply rapidly. Ensuring a high-quality water supply is a fundamental need for any civilized society necessitating the use of water filtration devices in various applications such as wastewater treatment or filtration systems for private households. However, these systems are susceptible to microbial contamination and biofouling. Such issues not only threaten consumer health but also reduce the lifespan of the filtration products. In the era of multi-resistant germs, enhancing water quality through innovative antimicrobial technologies and protecting filters from bacterial growth have become more crucial than ever.

AGXX is a novel antimicrobial technology based on a catalytic redox cycle which leads to the generation of so-called reactive oxygen species (ROS) from water and oxygen. Additionally, formation of a micro electric field between two precious metals further enhances the antimicrobial activity.

Efficacy against over 130 microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, algae, and fungi, among others silver-resistant E. coli strains, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), or CoV2 viruses as well as the prevention of biofilm formation by use of AGXX has been demonstrated to this date.

The technology is commercially available in various product types, well suited for incorporation in textile filters or direct use as a carbon-based additive in form of powders, granules, and pellets. Antimicrobial activity has already been proven in various applications, and AGXX may be an alternative to common technologies based on the release of metal ions, which are currently under regulatory pressure. The current work describes a large-scale synthesis concept for activated carbon-based AGXX materials, detailing their application in water purification against various relevant microorganisms.