RMIT Scientists Develop a Nanotech Revolution for Sterile Surface that Kills 96% of Viruses on Contact

Imagine a surface that can kill 96% of viruses simply on contact! This isn't science fiction, but a potential reality thanks to a new silicon material developed by researchers from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University in Australia.

What's the Big Deal?

Hospitals, labs, and anywhere needing maximum sterility could benefit greatly from this innovation. The secret lies in microscopic nanospikes that literally pierce viruses like balloons, rendering them harmless. This technology is inspired by nature – think of the self-cleaning properties of dragonfly wings!

How Does it Work?

• The silicon surface is crafted with tiny spikes just 290 nanometers tall (incredibly small!).
• Viruses come in contact with these spikes and get punctured or damaged, preventing them from reproducing.
• Tests showed a 96% success rate against a particularly virulent human parainfluenza virus (hPIV-3) responsible for illnesses like bronchitis and pneumonia.

• Reduced reliance on disinfectants: This technology could significantly lower the need for harsh chemicals in high-risk environments.
• Enhanced infection control: Hospitals, where patients with compromised immune systems are present, could benefit immensely.
• Scalability potential: Researchers are optimistic about applying this technology to various surfaces and environments.

Explanation: The main function of the silicon material covered with tiny nanospikes developed by researchers from RMIT University is to skewer and damage virus particles. "The nanospikes literally skewer virus particles as they make contact," and "This action breaks the viruses apart or damages them enough to stop them from reproducing."

Q2. What inspired the researchers to develop the virus-killing surface?

Explanation: The researchers were inspired by insects, such as dragonflies and cicadas, which have nanoscale spikes on their wings capable of destroying bacteria and fungi.: "The approach was inspired by nature: insects, including dragonflies and cicadas, have nanoscale spikes on their wings, which can destroy bacteria and fungi."

Q3. What technique was used by the researchers to create the surface with nanospikes?

Explanation: The researchers used a technique where streams of ions were used to cut away parts of a thin silicon wafer. "Using a technique where streams of ions were used to cut away parts of a thin silicon wafer, the researchers created a surface with spikes just 290 nanometers high and tips just 2 nanometers thick..."

Q4. Which type of viruses were used in the experiments to test the effectiveness of the virus-killing surface?

Explanation: The effectiveness of the virus-killing surface was tested using four different types of human parainfluenza virus (hPIV-3), as mentioned in the passage: "The bug-destroying properties of the material were then tested... using four different types of human parainfluenza virus (hPIV-3)."

Fri Apr 5, 2024