Photocatalytic Inactivation of Viruses and Prions: Multilevel Approach with Other Disinfectants

Abstract

Ag, Cu, Zn, Ti, and Au nanoparticles show enhanced photocatalytic properties. Efficient indoor disinfection strategies are imperative to manage the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Virucidal agents, such as ethanol, sodium hypochlorite, 222-nm UV light, and electrolyzed water inactivate SARS-CoV-2 in indoor environments. Tungsten trioxide (WO3) photocatalyst and visible light disinfect abiotic surfaces against SARS-CoV-2. The titanium dioxide (TiO2)/UV system inactivates SARS-CoV-2 in aerosols and on deliberately contaminated TiO2-coated glass slide surfaces in photocatalytic chambers, wherein 405-nm UV light treatment for 20 min sterilizes the environment and generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that inactivate the virus by targeting S and envelope proteins and viral RNA. Mesoscopic calcium bicarbonate solution (CAC-717) inactivates pathogens, such as prions, influenza virus, SARS-CoV-2, and noroviruses, in fluids; it presumably acts similarly on human and animal skin. The molecular complexity of cementitious materials promotes the photocatalysis of microorganisms. In combination, the two methods can reduce the pathogen load in the environment. As photocatalysts and CAC-717 are potent disinfectants for prions, disinfectants against prionoids could be developed by combining photocatalysis, gas plasma methodology, and CAC-717 treatment, especially for surgical devices and instruments.

New Advances in Viral and Microorganism Disinfectants

“…Therefore, environmentally friendly and non-harmful disinfectants for viruses and microorganisms are still under development. Numerous types of virucidal measures, such as cold gas plasma [4], chemical disinfectants [5], 222 nm UV [6], and photocatalysis [6], have been actively studied and are reported in this collection.…”

“…These discuss various new photocatalysts, naturally produced disinfectants (Kampo), and nanomaterials that function as disinfectants. Nanomaterials can prevent viral contamination via air and through contact with contaminated surfaces and can sterilize protective equipment, especially in hospital settings and animal facilities [6,7]. Creating a self-disinfecting surface using graphene-silver hybrids is a promising strategy to prevent the spread of COVID-19 [8].…”