SciTransfer
Triple-A-COAT · Project

Sustainable Bio-Based Antimicrobial Coatings for High-Traffic Public Surfaces

transportTestedTRL 6

Imagine a protective shield for surfaces that doesn't use harsh chemicals or silver. It uses a special material made from wood pulp and patterns inspired by dragonfly wings to stop germs from sticking. This keeps things like bus handles clean and safe between regular scrubbings without harming the planet.

By the numbers
6
Target TRL level
6
Months of simulation in bus environment
5-10
Years until commercialization
The business problem

What needed solving

Current antimicrobial coatings rely on silver ions and biocides that cause environmental damage and lead to antimicrobial resistance. These coatings often fail against biofilms, which protect pathogens on high-traffic surfaces.

The solution

What was built

A nanocellulose-based coating platform using antimicrobial peptides and bio-inspired nanopatterning. It includes spray and thin-film application methods for plastic, metal, textiles, and glass.

Audience

Who needs this

Public transport operatorsHospital facility managersSpecialized textile manufacturersPublic building maintenance firms
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Public Transportation
enterprise
Target: Bus and Train Manufacturer

If you are a bus manufacturer dealing with rapid germ spread on handrails and seats — this project developed a nanocellulose coating that inhibits bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It provides a sustainable alternative to oil-based materials and reduces the risk of infection in high-traffic vehicles.

Healthcare Infrastructure
any
Target: Hospital Facility Management

If you are a hospital manager dealing with hospital superbugs on high-touch surfaces — this project developed a bio-inspired coating that prevents biofilm formation. It offers a way to keep surfaces antimicrobial without contributing to the development of chemical resistance.

Textile Manufacturing
SME
Target: Industrial Fabric Producer

If you are a textile producer dealing with the need for durable, antimicrobial fabrics for public use — this project developed spray coating and thin film applications for textiles. This allows for the creation of surfaces that resist microbial growth using renewable forest resources.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the estimated cost or price of the coating?

Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost-per-unit information is not provided.

Can this be produced at an industrial scale?

The project focuses on spray coating and thin film applications and involves 10 industry partners, including a bus manufacturer, to move toward TRL6.

How is the IP handled or licensed?

Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not mentioned, but results are intended for commercialization within 5-10 years after project end.

Does the coating meet safety regulations?

The project uses ISO standard tests to evaluate antimicrobial activity, durability, and non-toxicity to ensure safety.

What is the timeline for market availability?

The project runs until 2026-08-31, with commercialization expected within 5-10 years after the project concludes.

Consortium

Who built it

The consortium is heavily industry-weighted with a 67% industry ratio, comprising 10 industrial partners and 8 SMEs. This strong commercial presence, combined with 4 universities and 1 research center across 8 countries, indicates a high focus on market application rather than pure theory.

How to reach the team

Contact the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven research office regarding the Triple-A-COAT project.

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact SciTransfer to connect with the Triple-A-COAT consortium for licensing opportunities.

More in Transport & Mobility
See all Transport & Mobility projects