KUWAIT CITY, March 10: The Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) announced that its Environment and Life Sciences Research Center has been granted a patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (US 12 219 959 B1) for a project focused on developing surfaces resistant to viruses and bacteria using solid waste.

In a press statement, the institute explained that the invention, developed by Dr. Sultan AlSalem, Dr. Fadhila Al-Salamin, and Professor Dr. Mohammad Sharif Al-Iskandarani, marks a significant advancement in waste management and valorization in Kuwait. The patented surfaces are designed to resist the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) as well as common bacteria that cause infectious diseases.

The research team utilized nano-coating techniques, incorporating a blend of metals such as nickel, silver, and copper. They tested various mixtures using different techniques to create resistant surfaces from pure plastic, plastic waste, and biodegradable plastic.

The invention contributes to improving public health by reducing the spread of viruses and bacteria, thereby lowering the risk of infections, especially in public spaces and healthcare facilities. Additionally, it supports environmental sustainability by repurposing solid plastic waste to manufacture these resistant surfaces, helping reduce waste accumulation.

Furthermore, the invention has economic potential by turning waste into valuable products, creating new economic opportunities that support sustainable development.