Silver has been used for decades in wound care. Ag⁺ is the active ionic form released from metallic silver, silver nanoparticles, silver nitrate, silver sulfadiazine, and silver-containing dressings. Ag⁺ is highly reactive with biological molecules — it binds to thiol (–SH) groups on proteins and enzymes, disrupts the bacterial cell membrane, interferes with DNA replication, and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS). This multi-modal mechanism makes resistance difficult to develop.
PHMB (polyhexanide biguanide) is a broad-spectrum polymeric antimicrobial and one of the most studied topical agents in wound care. It effectively reduces bacterial load in chronic wounds, burns, and surgical site infections. PHMB is considered biocompatible at therapeutic concentrations — it presents a favorable cytotoxicity profile compared to iodine or chlorhexidine, with less fibroblast and keratinocyte toxicity. Multiple studies support its use in critically colonized and infected wounds as an alternative to systemic antibiotics.
CHG is a broad-spectrum cationic bisbiguanide antiseptic in clinical use since the 1950s. Primary medical applications include pre-surgical skin prep (ChloraPrep), central line and port dressings (BioPatch), and patient bathing (Sage/Hibiclens), in addition to dental uses. CHG is broad-spectrum, fast-acting, and provides hours of residual skin protection. Note: it is deactivated by anionic polymers and surfactants, and is an ocular irritant.
FiteBac's K21 QAS is a highly optimized Quaternary Ammonia Silanol (silicone) originally developed in dentistry, now under study as a drug with antiviral properties. ETC holds an exclusive position and partnership with FiteBac and is actively introducing K21 into the Advanced Wound Care field. K21 Silicone Adhesives, K21 Hydrophilic Foam Dressings, and K21 Wicking Strips are all in active development.
Zinc ions provide a well-characterized, multi-mechanism antimicrobial action — disrupting bacterial cell membranes, inhibiting key enzymatic pathways (including those involved in biofilm formation), and creating a broadly hostile environment for gram-positive and gram-negative organisms alike. Zinc also actively supports wound healing: keratinocyte proliferation and migration, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis are all zinc-dependent processes. Three mechanisms in one: antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pro-healing.
Custom and proprietary materials are a specialty at ETC. The incorporation of your preferred chemistry into or onto medical materials has been our practice for decades — and it continues now. Films, foams, nonwovens, adhesives, electrospun fibers, and super absorbents are all candidate materials for modification or functionalization.