The spray works by repelling viruses and bacteria through an air-filled barrier as well as killing pathogens through microscopic materials if the layer becomes damaged or submerged for extended periods. It uses a combination of plastics strong enough to be considered an alternative to bullet-proof glass.
A 2020 study showed that Covid-19 could survive for up to 28 days on surfaces such as mobile phone screens and banknotes.
The coating provides a reliable alternative to standard disinfectants, which are becoming less effective and require regular reapplication, and is safer than existing alternatives to disinfectant, the researchers said.
Testing has shown it has no harmful side effects and more stable potency – unlike the next most promising non-disinfectant agent that kills bacteria, silver nanoparticles.
The authors said the coating could be applied to surfaces in public settings such as lift buttons, stair rails, surfaces in hospitals, nursing homes...