Scientists develop 3D material that kills COVID-19 and other pathogens

Hong Kong Polytechnic University has developed a material made by 3D printing that can eliminate 99% of the Corona virus and other pathogens in 20 minutes.

The foundation’s seven-member team began the research project in July 2020. The experiment consisted of combining antiviral agents with resin, the main component of the 3D printing process, to inactivate viruses and bacteria.

90% of corona virus has been eliminated

Research leader Chris Lu Kuan Yew, assistant professor at the university’s Institute of Textiles and Clothing, said lab tests showed the material was able to eliminate more than 90% of the coronavirus as well as other surface pathogens in just 10 minutes. More than 99% of them are in 20 minutes.

Studies have concluded that the substance has the ability to eliminate almost all viruses and bacteria, including the Covid-19 virus and bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus e Escherichia coli.

prolonged effect

Last year, researchers collaborated with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Hong Kong Wetland Park and an environmental organization to produce trash handles, bathroom door handles, elevator buttons and Braille signs in public spaces.

Analyzing the handles of the trash, the research authors found that the substance did not lose its effect after a year of use, since no pathogens were detected in them, according to researcher Kan Chi Wei, also involved in the project.

The team also sped the material’s corrosion process in lab tests to study its effectiveness and durability. The discovery surprised: the compound could kill nearly 85% of the coronavirus even after three years of use.

Way also claimed that the materials’ own disinfecting ingredients are incorporated into the products rather than coated on the surface, preventing daily cleaning from compromising their antiviral performance. The university has applied for a patent and is negotiating with various industries for the use of the material across the city.

This is not the first time that the university has made an antiviral material: in early December 2021, a research team at the institute developed a stainless steel that was able to eliminate the new Corona virus within a few hours, adding copper and silver to the metal mixture for a period of time , which are both conventional and inorganic antibacterial ingredients.

source: SCMP