This technology is expected to help reduce the spread of hospitals infections and counteract the growing antimicrobial resistance.
- BIOCIDA PAINTING (CHX).
- Eliminates dangerous bacteria on contact.
- More effective, lasting and accessible.
- Does not lose transparency or resistance.
- Does not release toxic to the environment.
- Great potential for hospitals, transport and public spaces.
“Murderous” paint: an effective solution against surface bacteria
The presence of pathogenic bacteria on surfaces It is a constant threat in hospitals, where immunosuppressed patients are especially vulnerable. Faced with this, researchers from the University of Nottinghamin collaboration with the British company Indestructible Painthave developed a new antimicrobial painting that quickly and efficiently eliminate the microbes that come into contact with it.
What makes this painting different?
Unlike other antimicrobial coatings they use silver, copper or even goldexpensive materials and limited effectiveness, this innovation uses chlorhexidine glucana (CHX)a broad spectrum biocide incorporated into a 2 % within a high durability transparent resin.
This solution is not only cheaper and accessiblebut also maintains the key properties of the original material, such as clarity, resistance to scratches and adhesion. In addition, the CHX The environment is not released Over time, which avoids secondary pollution problems.
Overwhelming results in laboratory tests
In the tests performed, the steel surfaces painted with this resin were exposed to three highly resistant bacteria:
- Staphylococcus aureus.
- They exhibited chill.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
After 18 hours of exposure, All bacteria were completely eradicated. This level of effectiveness is especially relevant considering that, under normal conditions, these bacteria can survive on stainless steel between four and six weeks.
The mechanism behind this effectiveness lies in the generation of reactive oxygen speciescapable of breaking the external membranes of microorganisms and destroying them without giving them the opportunity to reproduce or form biofilms.
Without compromising the quality of coating
An essential aspect is that the incorporation of CHX Does not alter the physical properties of painting. This guarantees that the solution can be used in applications where aesthetics, durability and security are equally important, such as:
- Hospitals and clinics.
- Public transport (train cars, buses, airplanes).
- High circulation schools and spaces.
- Food and Pharmaceutical Industries.
Potential of this technology
Beyond its immediate application in hospital environments, this technology has a high potential to contribute to a more sustainable future. Its ability to eliminate bacteria without releasing toxic substances reduces the need for Aggressive and antibiotic disinfectantswhich helps fight the growing Antimicrobial resistance.
In addition, by extending the useful life of the treated surfaces and minimizing the frequency of deep cleaning, the consumption of Water, chemicals and energy. This makes antimicrobial painting a powerful tool not only for public health, but also for Reduction of the ecological footprint In multiple sectors.
The incorporation of solutions like this is a key step towards infrastructure cleaner, safe and sustainablealigned with the objectives of the Global ecological transition.
Via News – Bacteria killing material creates superbug busting paint – University of Nottingham
More information: Development and characterisation of antimicrobial epoxy resin | Scientific Reports
