Biocote® Antimicrobial Technology

The benchtop equipment hygiene solution

To help combat this risk, the complete to Cole-Parmer® Stuart range of benchtop laboratory equipment is now protected with BioCote a unique additive applied during the manufacturing process, utilizing active agent silver to provide long-term effective antimicrobial protection. BioCote will effectively protect Stuart products against a wide range of bacteria and fungi such as Aspergillus niger (black mold), Steptococcus faecalis, Salmonella enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes for the useful life of the equipment. BioCote is also effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including MRSA.

BioCote antimicrobial technology
Figure 1 - Demonstration of the spectrum of activity possible for silver ions against a typical bacterium.

Wherever manufacturing processes allow, the BioCote active ingredient is added to every possible external part of a piece of Stuart equipment. Because the active silver ions are added during manufacture they are chemically bound within the material and won't leach out or rub off. See Figure 1.

Bacterial Growth without BioCote Antimicrobial coating
Figure 2 - Comparison of a BioCote protected surface vs. a non-BioCote protected service.

The BioCote finish inhibits the ability of the bacteria to reproduce. Without the ability to reproduce the bacteria will naturally die, normally within 8 hours. This has the effect of reducing the levels of the bacteria by up to 99% during an 8-hour period. On a non BioCote protected product, the levels of bacteria could grow exponentially. See Figure 2.

Where BioCote is applied?

BioCote is applied to all the following Stuart® equipment external components:
• Metal work - in the paint
• Plastic moldings - in the color
• Fascia - in the lacquer


Frequently Asked Questions About BioCote

How does it work?

During manufacture, silver is added to every external component of the Stuart product. The BioCote additive is used in a wide range of finishes including powder coating and plastics being incorporated at the manufacturing process. The BioCote finish inhibits the ability of the bacteria to reproduce. Without the ability to reproduce the bacteria will naturally die, normally within 8 hours. This has the effect of reducing the levels of the bacteria by up to 99% during an 8-hour period. On a non BioCote protected product the levels of bacteria could grow exponentially.

Why BioCote?

BioCote is a safe, effective and lasts for the entire product lifecycle. It doesn't wear off, nor does it leach.

How is it applied?

BioCote incorporates silver ions at the manufacture stage in both powder coating and plastics.

How effective is BioCote?

BioCote is effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi. Examples of bacteria and fungi tested against include: Aspergillus niger (Black Mold), Steptococcus faecalis, Salmonella enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes.

Is it effective against MRSA and other antibiotic-resistant bacteria?

Yes, BioCote is currently effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, including MRSA.

Can it create resistant strains?

There is no evidence to date as BioCote does not function in the same way as antibiotics and therefore, to date, no bacteria have become resistant to BioCote as they have to some antibiotics.

Has it been tested?

Simulated life cycle testing has been carried out by independent laboratories showing on going efficacy for over 25 years.

Why is BioCote different to other anti-microbial products?

BioCote can provide a complete solution including its patent protected powder coating. It contains a silver based anti-microbial agent which is proven to be safe within standard working practices.

Does it rub off?

No, the active agent in BioCote is incorporated in the manufacturing process and is chemically bonded to the material. The ions remain constant at the surface and cannot be rubbed off.

Is it safe?

Yes, Silver is completely safe.

Can you see BioCote?

No, Biocote protection is invisible to the naked eye. Even though you can't see BioCote, the “Protected by BioCote” sticker on every Stuart product will reassure you that your Stuart product has long term microbial protection.

Is the addition of BioCote audited?

As part of our partnership with Biocote Stuart products have undergone a rigorous validation process. This ensures that all products work effectively as an antimicrobial and that the bespoke additive solution is suitable. This is then supported with an ongoing Quality Control system offering certification for antimicrobial efficacy. All validation and Quality Control are carried out by an independent accredited laboratory.

Where can I get more information?

For more information on BioCote protection, please visit www.biocote.com. You can also contact our technical experts at 1-800-323-4340.

While every effort has been made to ensure all possible external part of each Stuart product is BioCote protected, manufacturing and material constraints mean that we cannot guarantee this.

Learn more about how BioCote Reduces Lab Equipment Contamination