Material scientists at The University of Manchester in the U.K. are collaborating with universities in China to develop healthcare provider uniforms brushed with copper nanoparticles that can reduce the spread of bacterial infections and viruses.
The researchers developed a way to bind the particles to wearable materials such as cotton and polyester, which proved challenging for scientists in the past. The research team is using copper since it has similar antibacterial properties to those found in gold and silver, but is significantly less expensive.
"Now that our composite materials present excellent antibacterial properties and durability, it has huge potential for modern medical and healthcare applications," said lead researcher Dr. Xuqing Liu.