In the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, Indian Institute of Technology (IITs) across the country are trying their best to aid the battle against the deadly contagion. A major problem with the identification and treatment of infected patients is the lack of Personal Protective Equipment Kits (PPE). A PPE kit can also become the source of the infection if not used properly.

Now, to overcome this problem, and for the safe usage of PPE kits by doctors, Prof. Biman B. Mandalof the Department of Bioscience and Bioengineering, IIT Guwahati, has prepared a spray with his PhD scholarMr. Bibhas K. Bhunia

Professor Mandal said that the most important thing to protect against coronavirus is the face mask. It is used by doctors, healthcare professionals and common people as well for the protection against catching the virus and acts as a barrier to the virus. It helps in protecting us from various microbes. Professor Mandal said that since the mask cannot be used again, it is needed in large numbers.

At the same time, the mask or fabric if not used properly, becomes the carrier of the virus. In such a situation, the spray made by IIT is very effective. In a way, this spray acts as an additional coating, through which the PPE kit can also be used again.

Prof. Mandal said that the price of the spray prepared by IIT Guwahati is quite reasonable, as well as it has been prepared according to industry standards, so that its manufacturing will not have to undergo much changes in future. He said that we are engaged in a fight against coronavirus pandemic under the leadership of our Professor T.G. Sitharam.

How the spray works

To make the PPE kits safe, this spray is sprayed on it or you can use it by immersing it in liquid. Mandal said that exposure to this antimicrobial (antiviral / antibacterial) spray kills bacteria. The spray acts as an antimicrobial agent in the presence of a metal nanoparticle cocktail such as copper, silver, and other active elements present in the spray.

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This 'spray' by IIT Guwahati can prove to be a game-changer in fight against coronavirus - Campus Varta