Forbes reports that researchers from Indiana University have developed a fabric that gets rid of coronaviruses' infectious capability upon contact. The preprint paper recently published describes how the fabric generates an electric field that could 'zap' the problem.
A month ago, another team of researchers established what has been said to be the 'most effective fabric' for facemasks. A hybrid blend of two layers of chiffon and one layer of cotton was attributed to its high efficiency and led to an effect of mechanical and electrostatic filtration of virulent particles.
Furthermore, the new study explores the possibility of electrostatic energies to act against COVID-19. With the knowledge that the coronaviruses rely on electrostatic energy to attach to cells, the authors of the study speculated that the electroceutical fabric could thwart the virus as well.
The Breakthrough Electrostatic Fabric
The researchers used polyester printed with little metal dots composed of silver and zinc for their fabric. As a control, they utilized polyester fabric, excluding the microcell batteries on the surface.
Next, they exposed both fabrics to a liquid solution containing cells with a respiratory coronavirus at room temperature. Moreover, they allowed the material to absorb the virus.
The findings of their study revealed that a compelling reduction in the electrokinetic property of the viral particles was evident after just one minute of contact with the fabric. The researchers also noted that the infected cells recovered from the electroceutical fabrics with the absence of damaging effects on healthy living cells.
Moreover, the team found that the cells obtained from the electroceutical fabric resembled healthy cells, indicating that the virus had lost its infectivity. On the other hand, cells from the control fabric did not display the same properties of healthy cells.
Although further studies need to be conducted to support their findings further, the authors believe that it could be a stepping stone toward eventually receiving FDA Emergency Use Authorization. They aim for their technology to be distributed widely to be utilized as face masks.
What are Electroceuticals?
The term 'electroceuticals' comes from blending the words' electrostatic' and 'pharmaceuticals.' Although this particular medical field is still growing, it shows promising effects in treating a variety of medical conditions.
Pacemakers, which are used to treat irregular heartbeat rates or rhythms, are typical medical devices that use the technology.
The geometric, interchanging pattern of zinc and silver are used in making micro cell batteries, which bring about an electric field upon exposure to moisture. When used in wound care, the electric field inhibits biofilms from forming and lessens the risk of bacterial infection during the healing process.
Can Coronavirus Cling onto PPE?
The use of personal protective equipment has played a vital role in the safety of many healthcare workers. However, studies have revealed that the virus can adhere to the surface of PPE. Additionally, the virus that clung onto protective equipment may continue to be infectious for long periods.
A study conducted by researchers from the University of Hong Kong found out that the coronavirus can stay one the outer surface of face masks for up to seven days. For this reason, experts advise that it is important not to touch the outside of the mask.
Furthermore, they add that it is possible to contaminate your eyes if you happen to rub them after also touching the outer part of the mask. Health professionals should be attentive not to touch any part of their face, including outer parts of the masks that they use as protection.
