Next-Generation Antimicrobial Resin Kills MRSA and Superbugs on Contact
In a major advancement for surface hygiene and infection control, scientists at the University of Nottingham, working alongside industrial partner Indestructible Paint Ltd, have developed a durable antimicrobial paint that actively kills a wide spectrum of dangerous pathogens. Published in Scientific Reports, the research showcases a resin-based coating that eliminates bacteria, fungi, and viruses—including MRSA, E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2—within minutes of contact.
How It Works
The innovation lies in the incorporation of chlorhexidine, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent already well known in clinical settings for its use in mouthwashes, wound care, and surgical hand scrubs. Unlike conventional antimicrobial coatings that release active substances slowly over time, this new resin forms a non-leaching, contact-active surface. Once dry, the surface becomes a hostile environment for microbes, disrupting their cellular membranes and killing them almost instantly.
This “contact-kill” approach is particularly significant, as it reduces the risk of biocide leaching into the environment or human contact zones—two concerns that have limited the broader application of some antimicrobial technologies. The coating also avoids contributing to antimicrobial resistance, a critical concern in today’s healthcare landscape.
Tested Against Healthcare and Pandemic Pathogens
The coating was rigorously tested on hard, non-porous plastic surfaces—materials commonly found in hospitals, public transport, and aviation interiors. In laboratory simulations, surfaces treated with the paint demonstrated complete eradication of harmful microorganisms within a matter of minutes. Notably, the tests included the highly resilient MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) as well as SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
For healthcare environments, these findings are highly significant. Even with regular cleaning protocols, high-touch surfaces such as bed rails, door handles, light switches, and medical trolleys often act as reservoirs for infection. The antimicrobial paint provides a passive yet continuous layer of protection, potentially reducing surface-to-human transmission between cleaning cycles.
Application Potential Across Sectors
Beyond hospitals and clinics, the technology has broad applicability across sectors where hygiene is a priority but continuous cleaning is impractical. In the public transport sector, the coating could be applied to railings, armrests, and ticketing kiosks. In aviation, cabin surfaces such as tray tables, seat backs, and lavatory doors could benefit from this added protection. Food processing plants, care homes, schools, and hospitality venues are also potential candidates for implementation.
According to the research team, the paint is designed for ease of use and integration into existing maintenance schedules. It can be applied like any standard industrial coating and is compatible with a wide range of materials. Once cured, the antimicrobial properties are embedded in the polymer structure, delivering long-term performance without the need for reapplication or supplementary sprays.
A Safer, More Hygienic Future
This development comes at a critical time, as global attention continues to focus on infection prevention and control measures in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. While cleaning protocols remain essential, passive antimicrobial technologies such as this paint offer a complementary layer of defence—especially in settings where human error or logistical challenges can leave gaps in surface disinfection.
Dr. Felicity de Cogan, who led the research at the University of Nottingham, emphasised the versatility and speed of the coating: “The resin can be painted onto surfaces or used as an additive in existing coatings, offering a flexible route to deployment. What’s especially promising is that it works quickly and without the risk of harmful residues.”
With further commercial development and regulatory approval, this innovation could soon play a central role in improving hygiene standards across a wide array of industries, ultimately helping to reduce the burden of infectious disease transmission in public and private spaces alike.
Original article published by Technology Networks: Antimicrobial Paint Kills MRSA and Other Superbugs on Surfaces
References:
Berrow M, Brooks A, Kotowska AM, et al. Development and characterisation of antimicrobial epoxy resin. Sci Rep. 2025;15(1):12463. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-90465-7
University of Nottingham. Bacteria killing material creates superbug busting paint. https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/news/bacteria-killing-material-creates-superbug-busting-paint
Further Reading
Antimicrobial Paints Market Report (2024–2031)
https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/Market-Reports/antimicrobial-coating-market-1297.html
An in-depth global market analysis highlighting key players, coating types, healthcare applications, and emerging opportunities in antimicrobial surface treatments.Addmaster – Antimicrobial Additives for Plastics and Coatings
https://www.addmaster.co.uk/solutions/paints-coatings
Discover how Addmaster’s Biomaster technology is used in polymers, coatings, and textiles to offer built-in, long-lasting antimicrobial protection across a wide range of surfaces.Microban – Built-In Antimicrobial Product Protection
https://www.microban.com
Explore Microban’s suite of antimicrobial solutions designed for consumer, healthcare, and industrial markets—helping reduce microbial growth on everyday surfaces.BioCote – Antimicrobial Surface Protection
https://www.biocote.com
Learn how BioCote integrates antimicrobial technology into polymers, paints, and coatings used in high-traffic environments to provide durable microbial resistance.Sanitized – Hygiene Function for Textiles and Plastics
https://www.sanitized.com
Sanitized AG offers antimicrobial and hygiene technologies for textiles and polymer-based products, with applications across healthcare, apparel, and industrial materials.EPA – Treated Articles Exemption Guidance
https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/treated-articles-exemption
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidance on how treated articles making antimicrobial claims are regulated under FIFRA, including labeling requirements and exemptions.
