SapienStone launches a new ACTIVE SURFACES countertop

SapienStone’s new ACTIVE SURFACES countertop is the result of wholly Italian research between Iris Ceramica Group, the Holding company of the innovative brand which specializes in high quality porcelain tile kitchen counters, and the Department of Chemistry, University of Milan. ISO and NSF certified eco-active countertops with antibacterial, antiviral, anti-pollution, self-cleaning and anti-odor properties have been developed to offer people the opportunity to make the best of their kitchen.

The new countertops are available in four designs : Uni Ice Active , a pure white which complements all kitchens, Calacatta Active and Calacatta Statuario Active , two marble-effects for a more luxurious look yet with a contemporary edge, and Pietra Grey Active , inspired by stone and the only dark color in the range, perfect for sophisticated metropolitan kitchens. Over time the range will be expanded to include new surfaces to meet changing customer requirements.

These cutting-edge countertops take advantage of the photocatalytic properties of titanium dioxide modified with silver to convert a simple ceramic tile into an eco-active material . Their antibacterial, antiviral, anti-odor, self-cleaning and anti-pollution properties are continual and do not diminish over time . As a result of the antibacterial and antiviral properties, over 99% of existing bacteria and viruses are eradicated, even the most harmful ones, and the formation of biofilms is also prevented.

In a few hours and with no need for sanitizing products or equipment, they destroy 99.99% of all bacteria ; from common strains such as Escherichia Coli to more harmful, antibiotic-resistant strains such as Staphylococcus Aureus MRSA . They are also over 99% effective against viruses, such as the particularly insidious and contagious H1N1 influenza virus and Enterovirus 71 .

Their antibacterial and antiviral properties are permanent, 24 hours a day , under both natural and LED light , in low light and even in the dark .

Natural or artificial light underlies ACTIVE SURFACES kitchen countertops’ anti-pollution properties . In the presence of light, an oxidative process is generated on the surface which permanently and continuously decomposes volatile molecules of dangerous pollutants in the air, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) emitted from cleaning products and/or furnishings, converting them into harmless substances. The latest SapienStone kitchen counters also have a superhydrophobic surface which repels dirt and therefore provides effective self-cleaning properties . Dirt can be removed simply with soap and water or a mild detergent . No harsh products, toxic to human health or the ecosystem are required. These properties are effective both indoors and outside, for example in outdoor kitchens. Furthermore, ACTIVE SURFACES’ anti-mold and anti-fungal properties are also certified.