Sappi North America (Boston, Mass., USA), a producer and supplier of diversified paper and packaging products, has entered into an exclusive, worldwide license agreement with Sharklet Technologies, Inc. (Aurora, Colo.) to manufacture and distribute casting and release paper featuring the ground-breaking Sharklet™ microtexture. The new release paper is the first of its kind to create surfaces that inhibit bacterial growth without the use of toxic additives or chemicals. The product will be the first in Sappi’s new Neoterix™ line and will be available to customers under the name Neoterix ST.

The patented Sharklet microtexture is biomimicry in action as it is inspired by the texture of shark skin. Shark’s skin features a unique texture and pattern which naturally slows the growth of barnacles and algae. According to a published study in Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control, when applied to high touch surfaces, the microtexture reduced surface contamination of methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) by as much as 97% and 94%, respectively, compared with controls.

Like all of Sappi’s release papers, Neoterix ST acts as a mold for coated fabric and laminates. It is used to transfer texture and gloss onto these surfaces and is then stripped away. Sappi has developed new technology to impart the Sharklet microtexture, at micron-level fidelity, onto its release papers and manufacturers can now transfer the Sharklet micropattern and its microbial resistance properties onto new product surfaces.

"Sappi continues to innovate and find creative ways to prove the power of paper. With this new offering, we’re moving beyond the aesthetics of synthetic leathers and laminates into true functionality. Neoterix ST has the potential to make a significant impact on the risk of bacteria transfer in healthcare institutions, restaurants, hotels, offices, and just about anywhere we can touch," said Tom Collins, VP and GM, Specialties Business at Sappi North America. "We’re proud to work with Sharklet Technologies to apply its patented microtexture technology on our papers so as to add an environmentally-safe, non-toxic tool in the battle against germs."

Mark Spiecker, CEO, Sharklet Technologies, added that "currently, many industries are using antimicrobial chemicals and metals to kill microbes on surfaces. There is a trend emerging to remove these toxins from healthcare and personal settings to provide healthier environments for people and patients. With Sappi as a trusted partner, we can change the dynamic in how we create cleaner surfaces," said Mark Spiecker, CEO, Sharklet Technologies.