UV-LED coating effectively self-disinfects surfaces

An ultrathin coating has been formulated at Purdue University to improve the level of disinfection on hospital Some hospitals use UV light devices to kill germs to disinfect rooms in hospitals. But these devices cast shadows, which can allow germs to grow. The new ultra-thin coating includes UV LEDs and could be integrated into materials. Source: Associated Press/Ryan Brennecke/The Bulletin

Some hospitals use UV light devices to kill germs to disinfect rooms in hospitals. But these devices cast shadows, which can allow germs to grow. The new ultra-thin coating includes UV LEDs and could be integrated into materials. Source: Associated Press/Ryan Brennecke/The Bulletin

surfaces. Designed to combat the growing epidemic of antibiotic resistance, the coating is infused with ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diodes (LEDs), or UV-LEDs, to disinfect any surface capable of harboring bacteria and viruses.

Advanced disinfection technologies include germ-zapping robots delivering high-intensity UV light, and a new bioactive glass designed for direct application to tissues and instruments during surgical procedures. These and other available solutions either cast shadows or do not cover shadowed areas where microbial culprits thrive. Since the LED-laden coating can be applied virtually anywhere, shadows no longer remain a refuge for pathogens. No expertise is needed to use the disinfectant — personnel need only maintain a safe distance to prevent getting a sunburn.