Overview
- RMIT University reports a flexible acrylic film that in lab tests disabled about 94% of human parainfluenza virus 3 within an hour.
- The surface uses dense nanoscale pillars that grip and stretch a virus’s outer shell until it ruptures.
- Experiments show spacing drives performance, with about 60 nanometres between pillars giving the strongest effect.
- The team says the film is low cost and compatible with roll-to-roll manufacturing for phones, hospital equipment, packaging and public transport.
- Drawing on insect wing textures, the design aims to replace harsh disinfectants that can wear off, leach chemicals or damage the environment, with real-world trials still to come.