Starting about 10 years ago, anti-microbial coating provider Bio Shield Tech LLC began its foray into the ventilation industry. While the company first sold its coatings to ambulances for door handles and other high traffic equipment, the EPA-registered technology works just as well at fighting pathogens and mold in ductwork.

Bio Shield’s principal competitor in the HVAC sector is pre-coated steel that comes with an antimicrobial coating directly from the manufacturer. AK Steel owns the exclusive license for applying an antimicrobial coating of silver ions to coiled steel, working with specific service centers to distribute to sheet metal shops across the country.