The present invention is directed to an antimicrobial composition,
comprising pyrithione or a pyrithione complex; and a zinc or copper or
silver source selected from the group consisting of zinc or copper or
silver salts, oxides, hydroxides, sulfates, chlorides, metals, and
combinations thereof; wherein the weight ratio of the zinc or copper or
silver source to the pyrithione or the pyrithione complex is in the range
from about 1:300 to about 50:1, and wherein the antimicrobial composition
has an enhanced biocidal effect against a variety of free-living
microorganisms or biofilms. Also disclosed is a method of inhibiting the
growth of free-living microorganisms or biofilm utilizing the above
antimicrobial composition, as well as use of such antimicrobial
compositions in various products including fuels, fluids, lubricants,
coatings, adhesives, sealants, elastomers, soaps, cosmetics, plastic or
woven or non-woven fibers, pharmaceuticals, and as preservatives for the
above products.