Behr has taken paint performance a step further by releasing COPPER FORCE Interior Paint. The paint, powered by Corning Guardiant antimicrobial technology, will give building occupants, residents, and homeowners added protection by killing 99.9% of viruses and bacteria within two hours of reaching the surface.

“The impact of this innovation cannot be understated,” says John Gilbert, Behr chief R&D officer. “We have developed a technology that elevates traditional hygiene efforts for interior spaces by providing an extra layer of protection against harmful bacteria and viruses on the painted surface, combined with the trusted performance of Behr Paint.”

Available in over 2,000 colors, its germ-fighting effectiveness lasts for six years, which is based on EPA test protocol as long as the integrity of the painted surface is maintained. “We are committed to keeping our customers satisfied and giving them peace of mind while continuously innovating the painting experience,” says Jodi Allen, Behr chief marketing officer.

During two years of research and development, Behr collaborated with Corning Inc. to create the virucidal and antibacterial coating. The breakthrough technology, Corning Guardiant, utilizes the benefits of copper to kill viruses and bacteria.

“Our Guardiant technology stabilizes the most bioactive form of copper ions and releases them over time to enable surfaces that are continuously protected from harmful bacteria and viruses,” says Joydeep Lahiri, division vice president and program director, specialty surfaces, Corning Inc. “Behr’s innovative paint delivers the essence of Guardiant’s value proposition—the potency of metallic copper plus a wide range of color choices.”