Researchers at the University of Central Florida secured a patent for a "nanomaterial-based disinfectant that can kill several viruses," including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, the Orlando-based school said Feb. 20.
The "COVID-killing" nanomaterial requires a continuous light source to produce antiviral properties, which creates "a self-cleaning effect," according to a news release from the university.
In a study published in 2022, the now-patented coating was found to kill SARS-CoV-2 and fight the Zika virus, SARS, parainfluenza, rhinovirus and vesicular stomatitis.
Sudipta Seal, PhD, department chair of materials science and engineering at UCF, said the defectant's patent was approved faster than usual, proving its "great value for combating viruses and pathogen-born infections."