Researchers develop portable disinfection device

New Delhi: Scientists from the Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIR-CSIO), a Chandigarh-based constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), have developed a new portable disinfection device. The device effectively prevents the spread of pathogenic microorganisms, including the coronavirus, say the researchers.

It is a handheld device based on electrostatic technology, which works on two fronts. First, when spraying disinfectant liquids, the device emits electrically charged droplets capable of killing viruses in the air. Secondly, charged droplets from the device can reach hidden areas of any target that may contain viruses.

The device has been designed and developed by a team of researchers led by Dr. Manoj Kumar Patel. Researchers say the technology is easy-to-use and can be used by shopkeepers, households, and small businesses. CSIR-CSIO has transferred this technology to Nagpur-based M/s Rite Water Solutions (I) Pvt Ltd for commercialization and mass production.

CSIR-CSIO Director, Professor S. Anantha Ramakrishna, said that “keeping in mind the user demand for ease of use of pathogenic disinfection equipment, CSIR-CSIO has developed this advanced and portable electrostatic device, which is designed to make public places free from infection with pathogenic microorganisms.”

The Technology Transfer Agreement has been signed by Abhijit Gan, Director M/s Rite Water Solutions, and Senior Principal Scientist and Head, Business Development & Project Management, CSIR-CSIO, Dr. A.K. Shukla. The technology transfer program between the two sides was conducted online. On this occasion, Prof. Ananth Ramakrishna and other departmental heads of the institute were present.

Dr Patel explained that “this innovative technology of electrostatic spraying has been developed to ensure disinfection and hygiene in public places, especially in hospitals, poultry, trains, buses, airports and airplanes, classrooms, hotels, and offices.” The device is effective in contributing to a healthy lifestyle and healthcare and is directly linked to the ‘Swasth Bharat Mission’ of the Government of India, he added.

(India Science Wire)