Tech Shield: How an Israeli Startup is Helping a Mumbai Hospital Combat Infections
By Arunima Rajan
In a decisive step to tackle the persistent challenge of hospital-acquired infections, Mumbai's state-run JJ Hospital has introduced an innovative solution: antimicrobial paint developed by Israeli firm Nanosono. This paint, now being applied to key areas of the hospital, is specifically designed to combat bacteria and viruses, offering a vital layer of protection for both patients and staff.
In an in-depth conversation with Arunima Rajan, Nanosono’s CEO, Ori Bar Chaim, explains how the paint’s nanotechnology operates quietly in the background, creating safer environments without requiring significant infrastructural changes. He also points out why Indian hospitals, where infection control is a pressing concern, stand to benefit from such innovations.
Can you share the story behind Nanosono and how the concept of developing antimicrobial paints originated?
At Nanosono, our focus has always been on making the world a safer and healthier place, driven by a commitment to innovation that truly benefits humanity. We recognized the growing threat of infections and understood that the fight against harmful microbes required something extraordinary. That’s why we set out to develop antimicrobial paints using cutting-edge materials and nanotechnology.
By designing advanced coatings that actively kill bacteria and viruses, we’ve created a solution that responds to the increased need for better hygiene, particularly in today’s post-pandemic world. These paints are more than just products—they are part of our broader vision to protect communities, reduce infection rates, and build a future where health and safety are a priority for everyone.
What sets Aquanir Active Shield apart from other antimicrobial paints currently available in the market?
Aquanir Active Shield differentiates itself through its patented nanotechnology that incorporates Nanosono’s QUACTIV™. While many antimicrobial paints rely on temporary effects or limited efficacy, Aquanir Active Shield maintains long-term antimicrobial activity, killing 99.99% of both bacteria and viruses. The paint’s effectiveness is sustained even in harsh conditions, unlike traditional solutions that degrade over time. Our unique composition offers a superior combination of antimicrobial protection, durability, and cost-effectiveness. QUACTIV™ targets a broader range of harmful microorganisms, including viruses. This contrasts with traditional silver-based solutions which are not only temporary and costlier but also face potential bans in the EU.
How do copper and zinc oxides in your paint effectively destroy 99.99% of bacteria and viruses on painted surfaces?
QUACTIV™ (the copper and zinc oxides nanocomposite) disrupts the membranes of bacteria and viruses, causing cell death. These oxides generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that interact with the microbes’ proteins, lipids, and DNA, leading to their destruction. In parallel, QUACTIV™ enters into electrostatic interaction and induces oxidative stress. This mechanism is highly effective and works continuously, ensuring that surfaces remain protected even long after the paint has been applied, offering lasting antimicrobial effects.
Why did Nanosono choose copper and zinc oxides over silver-based solutions for antimicrobial properties?
Silver-based solutions may face future bans in Europe, are toxic at high concentrations needed for efficacy, and have a limited antimicrobial spectrum, making them less ideal than QUACTIV™. QUACTIV™ has distinct advantages, including being more environmentally friendly and cost-effective, but most importantly – offering a long-lasting effect. QUACTIV™ has well-documented antimicrobial properties and enhances the paint’s broad-spectrum effectiveness against both bacteria and viruses. While silver-based solutions need to be reapplied again and again – paint with QUACTIV™ will remain active as long as the paint is on the wall. Furthermore, these oxides are stable in a variety of conditions and are less prone to resistance development in microbes, making them a more sustainable choice for long-term antimicrobial applications.
What is the significance of applying Aquanir Active Shield in the Out Patient Department of Sir J J Group of Hospitals, and what impact do you anticipate it will have on patient safety?
The installation of Aquanir Active Shield in the Out Patient Department (OPD) of Sir J J Group of Hospitals marks a critical step in safeguarding patient health. OPDs are high-traffic areas where the risk of microbial transmission is high. By applying our antimicrobial paint in this environment, we aim to significantly reduce the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses, thereby improving patient safety and contributing to overall infection control in the hospital.
Can you discuss how your coatings are more cost-effective and longer-lasting compared to traditional antimicrobial paints?
Our coatings are designed for long-term durability, maintaining their antimicrobial properties over time without the need for frequent reapplication. Traditional antimicrobial paints may require more regular maintenance and re-coating to stay effective, whereas Aquanir Active Shield offers a permanent solution. Additionally, because our paint continues to actively kill microbes even under harsh conditions, it reduces the costs associated with cleaning, maintenance, and infection control in the long run.
Are there any environmental or health safety concerns associated with the use of copper and zinc oxides in paints, and how does Nanosono address them?
QUACTIV™ is recognized for its safety and environmental friendliness when used in regulated amounts. At Nanosono, we use the lowest concentration possible and ensure that our products comply with all relevant environmental and health standards. Our extensive tests in FDA-approved laboratories have verified that our use of QUACTIV™ effectively combats microorganisms while being safe for humans and the environment, without impacting other organisms like insects. We also ensure that our formulations prevent any harmful particles from leaching out.
Do you have plans to deploy this antimicrobial paint technology in other hospitals or regions globally?
Yes, we are experiencing a rising global demand. The successful application within the Israeli healthcare system and public spaces, as well as in Sir J J Group of Hospitals is just the beginning. We are in discussions with several institutions worldwide and aim to introduce our technology to regions that face high risks of hospital-acquired infections. Our goal is to make this solution available to any facility looking to enhance hygiene and infection control.
What is your vision for the future of antimicrobial surfaces in healthcare and other industries?
We envision a future where antimicrobial surfaces are standard in not only healthcare settings but also in public spaces, schools, offices, and transportation. As the world becomes more aware of the risks posed by microbial contamination, there will be an increased demand for surfaces that actively combat pathogens. Our mission is to lead the development of these solutions, integrating antimicrobial technologies into a wide range of industries to protect public health and enhance safety. Imagine an ER at hospital, where all surfaces within the patient environment will be antimicrobial –walls, curtains, bedlinen, the staff’s uniform and gloves, even IV lines. Imagine what an amazing impact our solution will have when integrated into various applications!
On a personal note, what drives you in your mission to develop technologies that combat harmful microbes?
What drives me is the profound impact that antimicrobial technologies can have on people’s health and well-being. The ability to reduce infections, protect vulnerable populations, and contribute to global public health is incredibly motivating. I am passionate about using science and technology to solve real-world problems, and developing innovative solutions like antimicrobial paints is one way I can make a lasting, positive difference. And most importantly - create a better world for our children by addressing diseases and infections, which are major global challenges.