Textile Coating Could Make PPE More Resilient and Effective
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for protecting healthcare workers, but the materials used to make these items can absorb and carry viruses and bacteria. When the coronavirus spread among healthcare professionals and left PPE in short supply, finding a way to provide better protection while allowing for the safe reuse of these items became of utmost importance. Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh say that a new textile coating can repel liquids like blood and saliva and also prevent viruses from adhering to the surface. The coating’s ability to withstand ultrasonic washing, scrubbing, and scraping makes it unique. The researchers even tested scraping it with a sharp razor blade; after each test, the coating remained just as effective. With other similar coatings currently in use, washing or rubbing the surface of the textile reduces or eliminates its repellent abilities.