Polypropylene Modified with Ag-Based Semiconductors as a Potential Material against SARS-CoV-2 and Other Pathogens
Marcelo Assis, Lara Kelly Ribeiro, Mariana Ottaiano Gonçalves, Lucas H. Staffa, Robert Paiva, Laís R. Lima, Dyovani Coelho, Lauana Fogaça de Almeida, Leonardo Nazário de Moraes, Ieda L. V. Rosa, Lúcia H. Mascaro, Rejane Maria Tommasini Grotto, Cristina Paiva de Sousa, Juán Andrés, E. Longo, Sandra Andréa Cruz
Abstract
, which completely eliminated the microorganisms in up to 4 h of exposure. The composites were also tested for the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 virus, showing antiviral efficiency higher than 98% in just 10 min. Additionally, we evaluated the stability of the antimicrobial activity, resulting in constant inhibition, even after material aging. The antimicrobial activity of the compounds was attributed to the production of reactive oxygen species by the semiconductors, which can induce high local oxidative stress, causing the death of these microorganisms.