Canadian researchers develop self-cleaning plastic that repels bacteria

A team of researchers at McMaster University in Canada has developed a new self-cleaning plastic that can repel all kinds of contaminants, including multi-drug resistant bacteria.

The material is similar to the conventional thin, transparent plastic films used to keep food fresh, but its surface is textured with microscopic wrinkles (millionths of a millimetre in size) and chemically treated so that everything that comes into contact with it simply bounces off.

This prevents bacteria and viruses from sticking and proliferating on its surface, thereby avoiding contamination in at-risk environments such as hospitals.

The new material can be shrink-wrapped onto surfaces like door handles (a real breeding ground for bacteria), food and objects.

This is a very important discovery during the coronavirus outbreak, when hygiene is essential for reducing contagion in all fields, from food to healthcare.

The team is now hoping to find a commercial partner that will help them develop the application on a large scale.

Image credits: McMaster University