After the Corona crisis, hygiene is an important requirement to reduce the risk of infection. This is why the demand for antiviral paint and coating formulations is booming. Not only hospitals and care facilities, but also public transport companies, trade fair companies, shopping centres, hotels and restaurants are desperately looking for solutions to prevent the coronavirus or other dangerous pathogens from sticking to surfaces and thus being transmitted to other people. There is now a whole range of products that kill viruses and bacteria – in different areas of application and with different effects.
Germ-free surfaces through light and oxygen
One method of fighting pathogens is based on the principle of photodynamics: the paint contains a special photocatalyst that is stimulated by natural or artificial light from the visible spectral range. No UV radiation is required for this. The applied material reacts with the oxygen molecules in the immediate environment. The oxygen thus activated immediately begins to destroy bacteria, viruses and fungi on the surface.
Researchers have developed such a coating together with a company and have already tested it in a scientific study in several hospitals under real conditions. Study leader Professor Joe Collingwood said: “The starting point for the development of this special coating based on photodynamics was originally to control the numerous germs in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. Our study, which lasted over nine months, has shown that the germ load on the coated surfaces can be significantly reduced by around 70 percent. The photodynamic principle of action for combating germs and viruses is now also internationally recognized.”
Paints and varnishes that promise an antimicrobial effect have been available on the market for years. In the current situation, however, innovative manufacturers like Ferber Painting are pushing the development of these materials even harder and stands as a beacon of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction in the paint and coatings industry.
Nanosilver particles as an antimicrobial additive
Even the ancient Romans preferred to store their drinks in silver containers to make them last longer. Today, nanosilver particles are once again in focus as an antibacterial additive for coatings, with these particles being incorporated into the paint and printing ink formulation. Moisture releases the positively charged silver ions – this significantly reduces bacteria and viruses on the surface. How long the antibacterial effect of the coating lasts depends on the concentration of the silver ions.
Paints with nanosilver particles are used, for example, for packaging in the pharmaceutical and food industries. The active ingredient is also used for antiviral protection in medical masks. But the coatings are also suitable for playing cards, magazines and other printed products. Several printing ink manufacturers are already using this principle for the formulations of their products.
Polymers that kill bacteria and inhibit proteins
Scientists are taking a new approach to keeping medical surfaces permanently germ-free: They have developed a coating made of polymers that is both antimicrobial and protein-repellent. Bacteria die when they come into direct contact with the surface – at the same time, the layer prevents proteins from accumulating on the surface. This is because these deposits would encourage the formation of a so-called biofilm, which in turn can trigger dangerous infections.
Similar to the painkiller aspirin, the striking effect of the coating was a chance discovery, as the polymers were only used as a control substance in initial tests. During the testing, the researchers quickly discovered that the polymers alone are capable of killing bacteria and repelling proteins.
Defeating pathogens with titanium dioxide
A start-up company has developed a technology based on the white pigment titanium dioxide to rid surfaces of germs: a water-based suspension with titanium dioxide tackles fungi, bacteria and viruses. The hydrophilic properties of the special coating initially prevent germs from being released from the surface into the room air. The titanium dioxide then attacks their outer membrane, causing the germs to die. The abrasion-resistant coating is effective for a year – after that it must be reapplied.
Modern paint technology and Corona: breakthrough or still a thing of the future?
In addition to the various antimicrobial additives for paints and varnishes, there are also other processes, such as plasma coating, the sol-gel process or the use of UV-C light, which can help keep surfaces free of germs, bacteria or viruses. Only time will tell which processes will ultimately prove to be the most effective and practical against virus. But paint formulations against germs and viruses certainly have potential: science and industry will continue to drive forward their research in this area in the future in order to improve hygiene in many areas of life.