Panjab University (PU) has secured a patent for a groundbreaking, multifunctional surface coating capable of absorbing up to 96% of harmful Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) radiation. This innovative coating was developed by Gaurav Verma, a material nanotechnologist at the Dr. SSB University Institute of Chemical Engineering and Technology (UICET), and Anjali Sharma, a student at PU. The project represents a fusion of ancient Indian knowledge with cutting-edge nanotechnology.
Verma, who also serves as the director of sophisticated instrumentation laboratories at PU, explained that the new coating presents a significant advancement in protecting both living beings and materials from the harmful effects of high-energy UV-C radiation. “This multifunctional innovation is crucial for industries like healthcare, aerospace, automotive, and construction, where equipment and infrastructure are often exposed to UV-C rays for sterilization and disinfection purposes. Prolonged exposure to such radiation can lead to material degradation, increased maintenance costs, and health risks,” Verma said.
The novel coating is created by combining nanocurcumin, a natural antioxidant derived from turmeric, with modified clay to form a hybrid nanofiller. Verma drew inspiration from the traditional Indian haldi ceremony, which uses turmeric as a key element, and proposed using curcumin in its nanoform to create the coating. The resultant nanohybrid filler features platelet-like structures with orb-like shapes adhered to them, providing an innovative solution with enhanced protective properties.
This development not only integrates modern nanotechnology but also reflects a return to ancient Indian practices, proving that traditional wisdom can be harnessed in the advancement of modern science. The coating’s ability to absorb harmful UV-C radiation is set to have wide-reaching applications, particularly in sectors where UV-C light is extensively used, such as in hospitals for sterilization and in aerospace for material protection.
The patent marks a major milestone for PU, contributing to the growing field of nanotechnology and offering a promising solution to address global concerns about UV radiation exposure.