In the News
Self-sterilising plastic could be the future of PPE and other hospital disposables
16th September 2022
The BBC have reported on the development of a self-sterilising plastic, which demonstrates the ability to render viruses such as Influenza A and SARS COV-2 inactive.
Scientists at Queen's University Belfast have developed a thin plastic that is treated with titanium oxide, which means that when it is exposed to light, it destroys viruses through a photocatalytic process.
Studies have shown that viruses such as SARS COV-2 can exist outside of the body for up to 72 hours, whilst norovirus (commonly known as winter vomiting bug) can exist on surfaces for anything up to 2 weeks.
Therefore, it is hoped that this thin plastic film might be used for aprons, curtains and table coverings in healthcare settings.
Read more:
Self-sterilising plastic kills viruses like Covid
Flexible, disposable photocatalytic plastic films for the destruction of viruses
Liz Blamire
Liz is the tutor2u subject lead for Health & Social Care. She is a former NHS midwife, an SSAT Accredited Lead Practitioner, who has taught Health & Social Care in FE and secondary schools. Liz has extensive experience in qualification development, assessment writing, examining and moderation, and is a textbook author. Liz has an MEd in Inclusion and Special Educational Needs.
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