Anti-COVID cleaning spray has commercial potential

Researchers at The University of Queensland, led by Dr Heather Shewan, have developed a long-lasting surface spray that has the potential to kill viruses such as COVID-19 as well as potentially deadly bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

The spray contains a protein that allows it to stick to surfaces and remain effective for 24 hours and is being assessed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration for commercial cleaning use.

“We used hydrolysed gelatine, which essentially helps create a thin film that allows the spray to stick on surfaces and can stay there for at least a day and potentially longer,” Shewan said.

“This durability means it is effective over a longer period than a standard cleaner and has the potential to be used in high-use areas such as in public transport, kitchens, hotels, retail outlets, hospitals and public areas.”

The research was undertaken in partnership with Australian cleaning product manufacturer OzKleen, with the protein supplied by GELITA Australia. Shewan enlisted the help of virologist Dr Kirsty Short and microbiologist Dr Deirdre Mikkelsen to provide the multidisciplinary expertise required.

The team used several methods to test the spray, which is claimed to be cost-effective to manufacture and not harmful to the environment. Short said, “In one test we sprayed glass surfaces with the cleaner and let it dry on the surface, and after 24 hours we added the COVID virus and further testing showed it did not survive.

“We also conducted other tests that showed even after rinsing surfaces with water, the spray significantly reduced the amount of virus that was able to survive on stainless steel.”

OzKleen CEO Mark Quinn said the spray would be manufactured and produced in Queensland and potentially exported across the world. He said, “This is a very exciting initiative and the results show this product can be used in public places across the globe and will help to make the world a safer place.”

Queensland Innovation Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the spray’s development was made possible through an Advance Queensland Industry Fellowship grant of $90,000 and is now gaining international attention.

“Once approved, it will be manufactured at the Gold Coast and has the potential to create up to 30 good, secure jobs for Queenslanders,” he said.

Image caption: Dr Heather Shewan said the spray contains a protein that allows it to remain active on surfaces. Image credit: UQ.