Scientists develop light-activated antimicrobial surface

New antibacterial material is deadly to bacteria when activated by light and also shows antibacterial properties in total darkness


Researchers at University College London (UCL) have developed a new antibacterial material that they say is deadly to bacteria when activated by even modest indoor lighting. It also exhibits antibacterial properties in total darkness, according to an article on the FacilityCare website.

“There are certain dyes that are known to be harmful to bacteria when subjected to bright light,” said the study’s corresponding author Ivan Parkin (head of UCL Chemistry).

Researchers tested different combinations of the dyes crystal violet (already used to treat staph infections), methylene blue and nanogold deposited on the surface of silicone. In their tests, in which infected surfaces were subjected to light levels similar to those measured in hospital buildings, surfaces treated with a combination of crystal violet, methylene blue and nanogold showed the most potent bactericidal effect ever observed in such a surface, the article said.

The article also said that this is the first time a light-activated antimicrobial surface has had any kind of effect in the dark.

Read the article.

 

 



April 8, 2014


Topic Area: Environmental Services


Recent Posts

Furniture Selection Can Help Create Community in Senior Care Facilities

While predicting future resident needs is impossible, prioritizing choices is possible.


Texas HHSC Breaks Ground on New Panhandle State Hospital in Amarillo

The 164,475-square-foot, 75-bed hospital is expected to be completed in 2027.


Weingart Towers in LA Sets Standard for Behavioral Health Projects

Strategic project management in the creation of behavioral health facilities can help transform well-meaning plans into tangible, lasting change.


Roper St. Francis Breaks Ground on New Hospital Campus

The project remains on track for a 2029 completion.


Griffin Health Improves Patient Safety and Prevents HAIs with Electronic Hand Hygiene System

Case study: The system is used in all patient units, including the emergency department and ambulatory services.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.