Your first introduction to iodine probably began in childhood when, after suffering a scrape or cut, a dark, murky tincture containing iodine was applied to your wound. Iodine is a naturally occurring substance that can be found in the soil, in seawater, and in marine life such as seaweed, corals, and fish. People also require iodine in their diets in order for the thyroid gland to regulate metabolism. But iodine can do so much more.

As early as 1830, scientists realized that iodine kills microbes such as bacteria, viruses, and the fungi found in mold and mildew. Iodine reacts at the surface of each microbe in a process known as oxidation. In essence, the negative charge of iodine pulls away positive atoms found on proteins and lipids holding together microbial coverings: bacterial cell walls, viral capsules, mold spores. Iodine disrupts each type of microbial shield, weakening and killing the microbe inside.

The basic chemistry of iodine tinctures is simple. Two molecules of iodide are bonded and mixed into alcohol. The mixture (available in pharmacies as "betadine,”) is a staple in emergency survival kits and hospitals, where surgeons routinely use it to swab down patients before operations.

But because of the alcohol, the mixture evaporates quickly and causes pain when poured on open wounds. It stains hospital sheets and doctor’s clothing. Iodine can also irritate the eyes.

In the 1950’s chemists sought to solve the problems by creating a substance called Povidone iodine, a water-soluble form of iodine. It is safer, less volatile, and washable. But Povidone iodine, now used widely in human and veterinary medicine, is a liquid. Consequently, it can't be incorporated into products that would benefit from antimicrobial protection, such as mats, exercise equipment, and other commercial and consumer items. This limitation was overcome nearly 50 years later with the introduction of Triosyn® resin, which harnesses the antimicrobial power of iodine in a form that can be readily incorporated into a broad range of products.