Antimicrobial additives

Abstract

The invention relates to antimicrobial polymers and polymer blends which are prepared by polymerizing a monomer of the formula I: where R1=—H or —CH3 R2=branched or unbranched aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having from 1 to 5 carbon atoms, R3=H, or branched or unbranched aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having from 1 to 7 carbon atoms, R4=H, or branched or unbranched aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having from 1 to 7 carbon atoms, R5=H, or branched or unbranched aliphatic hydrocarbon radical having from 1 to 7 carbon atoms, and X=O, NH, NR5 and, where appropriate, then mixing with at least one other polymer. The antimicrobial polymers or blends may be used for producing hygiene items or items for medical technology, e.g. as a coating, or else in surface coatings or protective paints. They may also be used in a process for eliminating/reducing biofouling in water systems.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.