Etched aluminium surfaces can prevent bacterial growth- IISc researchers find

Hospital acquired infections or healthcare-associated infections are the most frequent adverse situations that arise in health-care delivery procedures worldwide. In low-to-middle income countries the frequency of HAI is almost always on the higher side. Researchers across disciplines have been trying to find a way to lower this frequency. Recently, a team of researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, was successful in coming up with a solution using etched aluminium surfaces.

Source: www.biospectrumindia.com

The scientists used etched aluminium to kill bacteria of both the drug-sensitive and drug-resistant varieties. They used sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide of different concentrations to etch the aluminium alloy for different time periods. The etched aluminium surfaces were even found to prevent the growth of bacterial strains (Gram-negative) that are commonly found within hospital premises.

The metallic surface if patented and used in hospitals will help lower the incidence of hospital acquired infections. The surfaces can be used on regular-use objects like tables, hand rails, bedside tables, operation theatre table, and ICU beds to name a few, the scientists said.