Abstract: The present invention is directed to polymeric coating formulations in which addition of an antimicrobial to a solution, containing solvent and polymer, significantly alters polymer entanglements. Benefits include alternative routes to, and customization of the polymer's degradation pathways. The dramatic entanglement changes also provide manufacturing advantages such as ease of stirring, pumping, and spraying. Furthermore, the coatings may have faster drying times, less shrinkage, more complete fill, and a more even coat for a given thickness. Methodology for production of coating formulations of the desired properties and their use to provide antimicrobial coatings is also described.

Abstract: A coating comprised of a polymeric material and a bioactive agent where the properties of the casting solvent dictate the dispersion of the embedding bioactive agent. In preferred embodiments, controlled release of the bioactive agent is achieved by homogeneous dispersion of the bioactive agent within the coating. A further aspect of the invention is directed to formulations where the heterogeneous dispersion of the bioactive agent provides an initial rapid release of the bioactive agent. Methodology for production of coating formulations of the desired properties and the application of the coating to an article are also described.