Australian Scientists Develop Plastic Film That Kills 94% of Viruses on Contact

Researchers at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia, have created an innovative plastic film capable of destroying viruses and bacteria instantly upon contact without the need for chemical disinfectants. This breakthrough technology, inspired by the natural structure of cicada wings, uses a purely physical mechanism to eliminate harmful microorganisms, offering continuous, eco-friendly protection in medical settings such as hospitals and nursing homes.

The film's surface features millions of tiny nanostructured pillars about 200 nanometers tall and spaced 60 nanometers apart, which physically puncture and rupture the viral envelopes when they land on the material. Laboratory tests demonstrated that this plastic film destroyed or severely damaged 94% of the human parainfluenza virus type 3, a common respiratory virus that causes serious illnesses like bronchiolitis and pneumonia, especially in infants, young children, and immunocompromised adults.

Unlike traditional chemical disinfectants, this physical method prevents microorganisms from developing resistance over time, addressing a major challenge in infection control. The research, published in the scientific journal Advanced Science, highlights the potential for this bioinspired nanotechnology to replace chemical cleaning agents and reduce hospital-acquired infections worldwide.