Review of immobilized antimicrobial agents and methods for testing

Antimicrobial surfaces for food and medical applications have historically involved antimicrobial coatings that elute biocides for effective kill in solution or at surfaces. However, recent efforts have focused on immobilized antimicrobial agents in order to avoid toxicity and the compatibility and reservoir limitations common to elutable agents. This review critically examines the assorted antimicrobial agents reported to have been immobilized, with an emphasis on the interpretation of antimicrobial testing as it pertains to discriminating between eluting and immobilized agents. Immobilization techniques and modes of antimicrobial action are also discussed. (C) 2011 American Vacuum Society. [DOI: 10.1116/1.3645195]