Abstract: Zeolite-containing dispersions used to place an anti-microbial coating onto packaging materials are disclosed. The dispersions can be either water or solvent based and include a) a polymer having an acid number of less than about 200, and b) from about 0.5% to about 10% by weight zeolites containing anti-microbial metal ions. The zeolites have a particle size of between about 2 and about 7 microns and a pore size of between about 3 and about 5 Angstroms. The dispersions can be printed onto various packaging materials to render them anti-microbial. After drying onto packaging material, the zeolites release anti-microbial metal ions, such as silver ions, on exposure to moisture.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to ink compositions which are resistant to agglomeration. The ink compositions include a dispersion containing pigment particles having a particle size of less than about 1 micron, a dispersing resin, a base; and water. Methods of preparing the ink compositions and applying them to various surfaces are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides for inexpensive, versatile methods for rendering packaging materials anti-microbial, by printing packaging materials with a substantially inert polymeric dispersion containing zeolites which release anti-microbial metal ions, such as silver ions, on exposure to moisture.