Nanoscale Spikes on Silicon Surface Reduce Virus Infection by 96%

Inspired by insect wings, the chemical-free method holds promise for safer labs and health centers.

Researchers from Universitat Rovira i Virgili and RMIT (Australia) have developed a silicon surface with nanoscale spikes that can damage and reduce virus infection by 96%.
The technology was inspired by the nanometric structures in insect wings that can pierce bacteria and fungi.
The process requires no chemicals and holds high virucidal potential, making it a safer option for labs and health centers dealing with potentially dangerous biological material.
The team used the finite element method to simulate virus-needle interactions and conducted practical experiments to confirm the virucidal effect.
The method is particularly effective against hPIV-3, a virus causing respiratory infections in children.