Scientists from the University of Sydney developed a first-of-its-kind sprayable coating that can prevent the surface spread of infection from bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19.
The research is published in the journal Advanced Science and was conducted by Professor Antonio Tricoli et al.
The spread of viral and bacterial pathogens through contact with surfaces is a leading cause of infection worldwide.
Surface contamination also plays a major role in the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains.
In the study, the spray works two ways: repelling viruses and bacteria through an air-filled barrier, and killing pathogens through microscopic materials if the layer becomes damaged or submerged for extended periods.
The spray uses a combination of plastics strong enough to be considered an alternative to bullet-proof glass.
The coating provides a reliable alternative to standard disinfectants, which are becoming less effective and require regular reapplication, and is the only permanent surface layer proven to protect surfaces from contamination by viruses.
It is safer than existing alternatives to disinfectants, with no harmful side effects and more stable potency—unlike the next most promising non-disinfectant agent that kills bacteria, silver nanoparticles.
The team tested the mechanical stability and surface energy of the coating. They also tested its ability to resist contamination from bacteria and viruses by subjecting it to high concentrations of both.
They say the coating could be applied to surfaces in public settings such as lift buttons, stair rails, and surfaces in hospitals, nursing homes, schools and restaurants, to prevent the spread of common viruses and bacteria.
The researchers have established a start-up company to progress the technology and make the spray available commercially, potentially within three years.
If you care about COVID, please read studies about zinc that may help prevent severe COVID-19, and you’re 1,000 times more likely to get COVID from air than from surfaces.
For more information about COVID, please see recent studies about common heartburn drug that may help treat COVID-19, and results showing vitamin D could effectively determine severity of COVID-19 infection.
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