Visible-light photocatalyst solutions for pathogen disinfection on surfaces

Overview

This solution leverages visible-light photocatalysts to disinfect surfaces by inactivating a broad range of pathogens, including E. coli, MRSA, and VRE. The photocatalysts can be used as a standalone active ingredient or added to existing formulations containing free chlorine, such as Lysol bleach, to boost disinfectant power through the generation of reactive species. The technology is designed to function both as an immediate disinfectant and as a "spray and stay" self-cleaning agent that continues to protect surfaces like kitchen counters over extended periods.

Technical specifications

Key features:

• Visible-light photocatalysts that activate under indoor lighting conditions, eliminating the need for UV light
• Two validated photocatalyst materials: graphitic carbon nitride and bismuth-based photocatalysts
• Compatibility with multiple formulation bases, including water, water with surfactants, and chlorine-based cleaners such as Lysol bleach
• Mechanism involves both direct pathogen inactivation and indirect action through production of reactive oxygen species and enhanced radical formation (hydroxyl and chlorine radicals) when combined with free chlorine
• Designed for spray-bottle application onto surfaces, enabling easy integration into existing cleaning protocols

How it works:

The photocatalysts absorb visible light and generate reactive species that attack and inactivate pathogens. When combined with free chlorine formulations, the photocatalysts activate chlorine to form more powerful hydroxyl and chlorine radicals, significantly enhancing disinfection efficacy compared to free chlorine alone.

Technology readiness level

The underlying photocatalyst materials have been validated in published research demonstrating efficient inactivation of E. coli, MRSA, and VRE in water. Additional published work has confirmed the ability of visible-light photocatalysts to produce reactive species for water treatment. However, translation to surface cleaning applications and commercial formulations has not yet been validated. The next phase of research involves testing three formulations (water, water with cleaning agents, and Lysol bleach) in a photoreactor simulating indoor lighting. Phase one (0-3 months) will evaluate aqueous-phase log inactivation kinetics in batch reactors, while phase two (3-6 months) will test spray application onto pathogen-contaminated surfaces to measure surface inactivation kinetics.