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.
Sustainable Bio-Based Antimicrobial Coatings for High-Traffic Public Surfaces
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.
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.
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.
Who needs this
Who can put this to work
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.
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.
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.
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.
Contact the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven research office regarding the Triple-A-COAT project.
Talk to the team behind this work.
Contact SciTransfer to connect with the Triple-A-COAT consortium for licensing opportunities.