Antimicrobial Paint Shows Promise in Reducing Surface-Borne Infections

Researchers at the University of Nottingham’s School of Pharmacy have developed a new antimicrobial paint that effectively kills a wide range of bacteria and viruses, including resistant strains such as MRSA, flu, and COVID-19. The paint incorporates chlorhexidine, a disinfectant commonly used in dental and surgical settings, into a resin that can be applied to various plastic and hard non-porous surfaces.

The team partnered with Indestructible Paint to create a prototype, which was tested and found to activate its bacteria-killing properties once dried. The findings, published in Scientific Reports, demonstrate that surfaces coated with the paint showed no presence of bacteria after application. Felicity de Cogan, who led the research, noted, “In our initial research we incorporated the disinfectant into the polymer to create a new antimicrobial paint which has excellent efficacy, it also doesn’t spread into the environment or leach from the surface when touched.”

Surfaces in hospitals and public spaces can harbor bacteria for extended periods, sometimes months, even after thorough cleaning. This persistence can lead to hospital-acquired infections, with pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Clostridium difficile posing significant risks. The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the issue, with estimates indicating that 20% of hospitalized COVID-19 patients contracted the virus during their hospital stay.

The paint’s versatility allows it to be used in healthcare, transport, and aerospace settings. Brian Norton, Managing Director of Indestructible Paint, stated, “This new material creates an opportunity to make a product that could have a positive impact on preventing the growth and spread of bacteria and viruses in a wide range of environments.”