Researchers from the Science and Engineering Division of the University of Guanajuato (UF) developed a powerful disinfectant that inhibits the spread of viruses and bacteria for at least one month and that could be an alternative to mitigate the spread of the new coronavirus.
The product was successfully tested at health institutions, including the Mexican Institute for Social Security (IMSS), as well as in buses.
“The suspension is able to destabilize the membrane of a virus to then attack and eliminate the genetic material,” said Dr. Christian Gómez Solís, who leads the team of UG scientists.
The product they have called “Filsmart,” is a contribution to face the problems linked to the COVID-19 pandemic and represents the university’s social responsibility.
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The disinfectant can be of great use at hospitals, schools, public transport, public spaces, and other places where people tend to gather; it can be used in walls, surfaces, backpacks, and clothes, as mentioned Gómez Solís.
He added that the inhibitor is the result of four years of scientific research that aim to protect Medicine students.
Nanotechnology
“The suspension, Filsmart, is made from photocatalytic nanomaterials with antiviral and antimicrobial properties that can stick to any surface creating an intelligent microfilm.
“When a virus or a bacteria makes contact with the invisible film, there is a long-acting viral or antibacterial inhibition process.
“The saliva droplet falls on the surface, so the material (the invisible film) will surround it, the polymer starts to react, and dissolves it; it degrades the membrane and the genetic material; the virus is completely degraded.” Said Gómez Solís.
Filmsart has an action spectrum of 30 to 60 days in which there is no bacterial growth. Different trials tested the effectiveness of the inhibitor on surfaces for seven months, said the researcher.
The nanotechnology used for the synthesis of the suspension creates a non-toxic and eco-friendly material.
The scientist said that the product is patent pending and they are waiting for the COFEPRIS’s license to commercialize it; moreover, they are carrying out the paperwork for exporting it into the U.S. “It’s the only product of its kind in the world,” he said.
The disinfectant will be sold at a discount in hospitals, schools, and government premises; it can protect surfaces, clothes, steering wheels, and couches.
mp