Hygiene in household appliances is essential for protecting users’ health and ensuring that appliances remain clean. In these products, the proliferation of mold and bacteria can occur due to the contact with humidity, food, dust, or other agents (such as detergent residues). Plastic is one of the materials where mold and bacteria can grow.
Refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and vacuum cleaners are devices in which internal components can become contaminated and are not easy to clean. This can cause unpleasant odors and can also have a negative effect on the performance of the appliances.
Research into advanced materials has led to the development of antimicrobial additives that can be incorporated into materials (including plastic) during the manufacturing process. This ensures that the appliance has a higher level of hygiene, preventing the proliferation of bacteria and mold. Besides, the product lasts longer.
LG PuroTec, an antimicrobial glass powder
LG is accelerating the global expansion of its advanced materials business. The company launched LG PuroTec, an antimicrobial glass powder that offers antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.
“PuroTec – the company explains – can be blended into materials like plastic, paint and rubber to provide antibacterial and anti-fungal effects that can help prevent odors, contamination and discoloration caused by microorganisms. Even in small quantities, it maintains excellent efficacy and mixes easily with various base materials, enhancing its value across manufacturing sectors”.
Besides, the antimicrobial glass powder provides chemical and thermal stability, as well as durability and resistance to discoloration.
As part of its global expansion strategy, LG presented PuroTec in Asia and plans to introduce PuroTec in Europe and North America.
A wide range of applications
LG PuroTec presents a wide range of applications: home appliances, construction materials, medical devices and textiles. Building on its expertise in glass powder technology, the company is positioning PuroTec as a new pillar of its B2B materials strategy. Since introducing the product in 2023, LG has expanded its presence in Asian markets such as China, Vietnam and India, while securing approximately 420 related patents since 2006.
In addition to PuroTec, the company continues to invest in the development of advanced materials. A notable example is Marine Glass, a functional, water-soluble glass material designed to help support marine ecosystem restoration. When dissolved, it changes into an inorganic ion state that stimulates the growth of both microalgae and macroalgae, helping to rehabilitate damaged ocean environments.
“We will continue to develop advanced materials that meet the evolving needs of global B2B customers – said Baek Seung-tae, head of the LG’s Kitchen Solution Business –. These innovative solutions will enable us to expand beyond traditional home appliances and into broader, future-forward industries”.
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