Antimicrobial polymers, also known as polymeric biocides, are a class of polymers that have antimicrobial activity or are capable of inhibiting the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, or protozoans. These polymers are designed to mimic antimicrobial peptides used by immune systems to kill bacteria. Typically, antimicrobial polymers are produced by attaching or docking an active antimicrobial agent to a polymer backbone via an alkyl or acetyl linker. While antimicrobial polymers can enhance the productivity and selectivity of currently used antimicrobial agents, antimicrobial polymers reduce environmental hazards, since they are generally non-volatile and chemically stable. 

This makes it an important candidate for water health in the food industry to prevent bacterial contamination and to prevent the growth of microorganisms in potable water and in medicine industry as means of combatting with infection.