IIT-Guwahati Is Working On An Antimicrobial Coating For PPE

IIT-Guwahati (Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati) said that its researchers were working on a cost-effective spray-based coating for PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Besides the coating, the researchers have also 3D-printed an “Ear Guard” to relieve the pain that healthcare workers feel when wearing face masks for too long.

PPE that you see healthcare staff wearing is acting as a barrier to protect them from infectious droplets. The antimicrobial coating that the research team developed can be sprayed on to PPE kits, thus killing and preventing the spread of microbes after into contact with the surface of the PPE.

The metal nanoparticle cocktail consists of silver, copper, and other active ingredients works as an antimicrobial agent. This will limit the buildup and penetration of microbial contaminants.

By limiting the microbes’ transmission, the coating can reduce the risk of healthcare workers having a secondary infection.

It can be dip/spray-coated onto different kinds of surfaces like textiles or the surfaces of medical devices. This will allow for the reuse of PPEs.

Besides the coating, the research team has also developed a prototype for an “Ear Guard” that can easily be 3D-printed.

The guard’s ergonomic design helps keep the strap of the face mask in place while not putting pressure onto the ears. Therefore, healthcare workers can wear their face masks all day without feeling any pain or discomfort.

The “Ear Guard” is free size, so everyone can use it.

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