Overview

• The method measures how quickly bentonite clay particles settle in a saline solution to reveal the presence and concentration of SARS-CoV-2.
• Researchers validated the technique against plaque assays and RT-PCR for high accuracy comparable to established diagnostics.
• It requires minimal equipment and offers a cost-effective alternative to PCR and antigen tests in resource-limited environments.
• The approach has demonstrated potential to detect other viruses, including the Newcastle Disease Virus impacting poultry.
• The team is now collaborating with industry partners to conduct clinical trials for COVID-19 and extend the technology’s applications.