A new antibacterial paint has been developed. It can be used in hospitals and airports

Scientists have developed a paint containing antiseptic and antibacterial chlorhexidine, which destroys, among others Resticine staphylococcal strains. It can be used, for example, in hospitals or transport – informs “Scientific Reports”.

Different surfaces can be a reservoir of bacteria, especially in medical environments, from hospital beds to toilet boards. The problem is also Frequently touched surfaces in public spaces, such as seats and tables in aircraft. Some species of microorganisms can survive despite improved cleaning regimes, even up to several months. In the hospital, this can lead to an increased risk of infection in patients who then require antibiotic treatment.

Chlorhexidine is included in the mouthwash, toothpastes or gum gels. Its solutions are also used when disinfecting hands, surfaces, wound medical equipment or decontamination of the skin before treatments.

The paint containing chlorhexidine was developed by scientists from the University of Nottingham in cooperation with the manufacturer of specialized paints and coatings – an Indestructible Paint. This paint effectively destroys bacteria, including difficult to kill species, such as methyticine resistant to staphylococcal strains (MRSA) and some viruses, for example influenza and Covid-19.

New paint It can be applied to a series of hard, non -porous surfaces, also made of plastic, providing an antibacterial coating. In addition to hospitals, it could be used, for example, in transport and the aviation industry.

“In the initial studies, we have included a disinfectant in the polymer to create a new antibacterial paint that has excellent effectiveness, and does not spread in the environment or flushes out of the surface after touching. The new study clearly showed that the surface covered with this paint do not have bacteria and immediately after drying it becomes active. It is easy to apply and profitable, “said Dr. Felicity de Cogan, who managed the work, co-author of the publication (DOI: 10.1038/S41598-025-90465-7).

Covid-19 pandemic attracted more attention to hospital infections, because it is estimated that 20 percent. All patients hospitalized because of Covid-19 were already infected with the virus in the hospital. In 2016/17 4.7 percent Adult hospital patients have had various types of infections in the hospital, and 22,800 patients died of these infections, despite the fact that these deaths could be prevented. The most common pathogens causing hospital infections are Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus Aureus and Clostridium difficile – often strains resistant to antimicrobial drugs.

Paweł Wernicki (PAP)

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