A
new antibacterial material that has potential for cutting hospital acquired
infections has been developed by scientists. The combination of two simple dyes
with nanoscopic particles of gold is deadly to bacteria when activated by light
-- even under modest indoor lighting. And in a first for this type of
substance, it also shows impressive antibacterial properties in total darkness.
The
team, tested several different combinations of the dyes crystal violet (already
used to treat staph infections), methylene blue and nanogold, deposited on the
surface of silicone. This flexible rubbery substance is widely used as a
sealant, a coating and to build medical apparatus such as tubes, catheters and
gaskets, and can also be used as protective casings for things like keyboards
and telephones.
For
further details, see:
Posted by Tim Sandle
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