by In a breakthrough study, scientists have developed a long-lasting antimicrobial coating for textiles that could revolutionize hospital environments by effectively eliminating viruses and bacteria. Hospitals, which are intended to promote healing, often harbor dangerous pathogens that can pose a risk to patients. While surfaces like door handles or railings can be easily disinfected, materials such as textiles are more difficult to clean. The development of this antimicrobial textile coating could prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings, offering a significant advancement in patient safety.
The research team, composed of scientists from Empa, BASF, Spiez Laboratory, and the Technical University of Berlin, developed a new formula of disinfectant containing benzalkonium chloride. They applied this solution to fabric samples by soaking them in a primer solution, followed by running them through coater rolls. The process was meticulously optimized to ensure the coating effectively adhered to the fabric.
To evaluate the antimicrobial effectiveness of the coating, the team incubated fabric samples with common hospital bacteria, such as staphylococcus and pseudomonas. After just ten minutes, the bacteria showed significant reduction or were completely eliminated. Furthermore, the coating proved highly effective against viruses, with a kill rate of 99%.
While the coating demonstrates impressive antimicrobial properties, its longevity is equally important. The team conducted experiments to investigate the durability of the fabric coating. Samples stored for six months retained the same antibacterial profile as fresh ones, and tests simulating artificial aging suggested that the coating could remain stable on fabric for up to five years.
However, the coating is susceptible to washing away, rendering it unsuitable for applications like staff uniforms, patient gowns, or bedding. Nevertheless, researchers believe that the coating could be applied to curtains around hospital beds or air filters. When combined with other antimicrobial measures, such as antimicrobial lights or materials, the coating has the potential to significantly reduce the spread of superbugs in hospitals.
The emergence of antimicrobial textile coatings marks a significant step forward in infection control. With the ability to effectively kill pathogens on contact, these coatings could vastly improve patient outcomes in healthcare settings. By preventing the transmission and spread of infections, hospitals can maintain a safer environment for patients, staff, and visitors.
Antimicrobial textile coatings could find applications in other industries as well, such as food processing, hospitality, and public transportation. As researchers continue to refine and optimize these coatings, the potential for combatting pathogen transmission in various settings becomes increasingly promising.
In summary, the development of a durable antimicrobial textile coating showcases the potential to effectively combat superbugs in hospitals. With its ability to eliminate bacteria and viruses on contact, this coating could significantly improve infection control measures, ensuring safer environments for patients and healthcare professionals. As further advancements and collaborations emerge in this field, the potential applications of antimicrobial textile coatings may extend to other industries, revolutionizing the way we safeguard against infectious diseases.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
