The anti-viral properties of Airlite paint have been confirmed by independent test results from La Sapienza University of Rome and the Guangdong Detection Centre of Microbiology.
Airlite is a technology embedded in a mineral paint which, when in the presence of light and air humidity, creates a barrier of oxidants.
This barrier of oxidants makes harmful organic substances decompose into harmless substances.
It has previously been proven to reduce airborne pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and a large number of bacteria.
The testing which was commissioned In response to COVID-19 related to two strains of the virus:
Influenza A virus subtype H1N1 is an influenza A virus strain of which there are numerous variants that cause pandemic influenza forms in animals and humans, such as swine fever.
Person-to-person transmission can spread by air through saliva droplets carried by sneezing or coughing of infected people and through contact with infected materials or surfaces.
Enterovirus71 (EN71) causes outbreaks of severe neurological diseases and diseases of the hand, foot and mouth in children.
Enterovirus 71 can cause permanent paralysis (poliomyelitis) in some cases.
Results from both laboratories involved confirmed a 75 per cent reduction in the new coronavirus in only 60 minutes and a 99.9 per cent reduction in 4 hours, with more extensive testing by La Sapienza University additionally confirming a claim by the manufacturer that Airlite breaks down viruses in the same manner in which soap makes viruses inactive.
A virus is a self-assembled particle in which the weakest link is the lipid (fatty) bilayer.
Airlite, like a soap, dissolves the fat membrane causing the virus to then fall apart.
Airlite CEO, Cianci, comments: "In the midst of today’s pandemic, we must find ways to protect our homes and workspaces.
Airlite purifies the air by eliminating pollution and actively killing bacteria and viral proteins. The paint allows you to sanitize your walls in a simple, effective and long-lasting way, providing a safer and healthier environment.
We are looking forward to helping combat the spread of illness and our partners, such as Bouygues UK, are already looking at painting healthcare, education and residential facilities."
Jo Adams, Lead Interior and Workplace Designer with construction, engineering, and design contractor Bouygues UK, adds: "Bouygues runs an open innovation programme to uncover innovation that brings value to our clients and our partnership with Airlite is a brilliant example of this.
"With the changes driven by COVID, we have adapted quickly and are already using Airlite to combat the spread of bacteria and viruses and improve air quality across our portfolio in the education, residential and healthcare sectors, helping to protect our clients, employees and all who use the buildings we operate."
