Covid-19 is an Enveloped virus and relies on a protective lipid coating. These are the easiest types of virus to deactivate. Unlike many gastrointestinal viruses such as Norovirus which have a tough protein shell called a capsid enveloped virus, viruses with this lipid coating are relatively vulnerable and easier to destroy.
There are several methods available to destroy the lipid coating
Alcohol-based products disintegrate the protective lipids. Quaternary ammonium disinfectants, commonly used in healthcare and food-service industries, attack protein and lipid structures, thwarting the pathogen’s typical mode of infection.Bleach and other potent oxidizers will also break down the essential components of a virus.
These methods are highly effective at removing dangerous pathogens from surfaces, but they only remain effective for up to two hours maximum. Any new microbes landing on the surface after that will continue to thrive.
Biomaster antimicrobial technology has been proven effective at reducing the viability of Norovirus on porous surfaces including treated fabrics and papers.
In independent laboratory tests, analysis identified that Biomaster fabric spray is effective at reducing the viability of Norovirus applied to textiles.
The effects of the spray on the virus was measured after 5 minutes, 30 minutes and one hour. The outcome was a virucidal effect on the test virus by 93% in half an hour, and 99% within an hour.
Biomaster has yet to be tested against Covid-19 on this type of application and currently there is no method available by which it could be tested.
However although we do not yet have any data, the microbiology suggests that if Biomaster is effective against Norovirus on porous surfaces, then the active agent is also likely to have an effect on the lipid coating and the essential components required for Covid-19 to function and invade a host.
Unlike alcohol-based gels, disinfectants and oxidisers, Biomaster antimicrobial technology is effective 24/7 for the lifetime of the treated article. It could therefore complement current hygiene guidance offering additional product protection.
The most important thing at this time is to follow the official advice and keep safe.
