Hygi Develops Anti COVID Copper Alloys to Replace Stainless Steel
Business Live reported that Devon Barnstaple based Hygi Group has developed a new copper-based alloy that kills viruses and bacteria on impact and can replace stainless steel. It is set to play a significant part in future management of the virus, offering a viable anti-Covid replacement for stainless steel in public buildings and spaces. The test results came from a team of scientists at the University of Southampton, led by Professor Bill Keevil, one of the world’s leading microbiologists. Test results showed that on the new alloy the Covid virus was almost completely eliminated in 90 minutes, and totally so within two hours. He said “Many public and private buildings have touch surfaces made from stainless steel, such as door handles, push-plates, handrails and the like. It appears to be clean and shiny, but hides a multitude of sins. Under the microscope we see lots of pits and crevices where pathogens such as bacteria and viruses can hide, even after cleaning.”
It has already caught the eye of top rugby team Exeter Chiefs, which is looking to use it in changing rooms and the extension to the East Terrace at the Sandy Park stadium.
Hygi Group Managing Director Mr Aaron Yeo said “Unfortunately, not only does stainless steel do nothing to inactivate the virus, it can actually harbour it for days if not weeks, even after cleaning. When people cough or sneeze, or even speak loudly, they're producing thousands of particles in the air, which eventually all settle, and when touched will get transported. There’s a lot of confusion, and, frankly, misinformation, over what percentage of infections are caused via touch surfaces. My experience tells me touch surface transmission is a significant factor in the spread of Covid, as indeed it has been with Influenza. This new alloy developed in the UK will also be useful in the education sector, at transport hubs, sports stadia and entertainment venues, etc. Indeed, anywhere with high human traffic. Hygi Group in Barnstaple should be very pleased by what they have achieved.”
Source - Strategic Research Institute