Hong Kong to launch 'antiviral coating' in May
(Baonghean.vn) - A group of scientists from the University of Hong Kong (China) announced that they have developed a coating that can protect surfaces from bacteria and viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, for 90 days.
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| A group of Hong Kong scientists researched the antibacterial coating MAP-1. Photo: Reuters. |
The coating, called MAP-1, has been developed by Hong Kong researchers over the past 10 years. When applied to surfaces such as elevator buttons and handrails, MAP-1's anti-virus capabilities are "remarkable," said Professor Joseph Kwan, one of the team's lead researchers.
The coating is formed after spraying millions of nanocapsules containing disinfectant. Even when dry, the coating is still effective in killing bacteria and viruses. “Unlike conventional disinfection methods such as diluted bleach or alcohol, the MAP-1 coating is enhanced by heat-sensitive polymers that release disinfectants when in contact with the skin,” Professor Joseph Kwan further explained.
After clinical trials at a hospital and a nursing home in Hong Kong earlier this year, the MAP-1 coating has been officially approved and is expected to be commercially available in May. With the support of a Hong Kong charity, the antibacterial coating will be provided free of charge to more than 1,000 low-income families in the city. “If there is a positive case in this building, we can easily get infected. But with this antiviral solution, we feel more protected against the virus,” said Hong Kong resident Law Ha-yu.
Researchers say that some shopping malls, schools and sports training facilities in Hong Kong have used this antibacterial coating MAP-1. This new product is expected to effectively support the work of preventing the spread of Covid-19 in the community.
