Grants to support Transmission Limiting Technology

Three Innovate UK grants have been awarded to scientists at the University of Liverpool to develop anti-viral technology that will limit the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) from touching contaminated surfaces in areas such as hospitals, train stations or restaurants and shops.

Researchers from the University’s Open Innovation Hub for Antimicrobial Surfaces will work alongside local industry and partners targeting three main applications: anti-viral coatings to create reusable face visors and goggles with high optical performance; a transparent anti-viral touch screen coating for ticket machines used widely in public transport and healthcare; and a point-of-sale cleansing system for the retail sector to rapidly disinfect card readers after every use.

The first two projects are in partnership with Gencoa Ltd and its supply chain, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and will involve end-users Northern Rail and Alder Hey while the final project is being developed with Biaccon Ltd who are supported by several collaborators including BIRA.

Professor Rasmita Raval, Director of the Open Innovation Hub for Antimicrobial Surfaces, said: “Anti-viral surfaces are at the frontline of COVID control and new surface-based technologies have the potential to break and contain chains of transmission. This project creates an excellent opportunity to translate our state-of-the-art surface science research into the region’s innovation pipeline and help our regional SME companies to create new products that will enable key sectors in our city and the UK to open up again.”