Contact-mediated, or fomite, transmission of the novel coronavirus from contaminated high-touch surfaces has been shown to be non-negligible. In response, researchers are developing materials to mitigate this transmission, including using copper and copper coatings. In this digital-first article from Advanced Materials & Processes, ASM International’s flagship magazine, researchers from the Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts share their studies, which show enhanced antiviral performance is associated with antipathogenic copper material consolidation obtained using cold spray processing.
Read the full digital-first article, which will also be published in the January 2021 issue of Advanced Materials & Processes (AM&P) magazine.
This article is the sixth installment in an AM&P series on materials science and the coronavirus.
About the Authors
Bryer C. Sousa, doctoral candidate, materials science and engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Danielle L. Cote, assistant professor, materials science and engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
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About Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester Polytechnic Institute was founded in 1865 to create and convey the latest science and engineering knowledge in ways that are most beneficial to society. Today, WPI holds firm to its founding mission to provide an education that balances theory with practice. The university’s curriculum features a flexible, rigorous program that is project-based and globally engaged, aimed at quality experience and a positive impact for the communities it partners with. Graduate research programs include robotics, materials science, cybersecurity, and learning sciences and technology.
About ASM International
ASM International is a member-driven organization that serves the information needs of scientists, engineers, and technicians who develop, test, select, and apply advanced materials, including metals, composites, polymers, and ceramics. As the world’s largest and most established materials information society, ASM engages and connects members to a global network of peers and provides access to trusted materials information through reference content and data, education courses, international events, and applied research.
To learn more about ASM International, visit asminternational.org or call 440.671.3800 to speak with an ASM International representative.
Image–Cross-sectional optical micrograph of a Cu wire arc sprayed coating.
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For more information:
Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)
Previous articles in the Materials Science and the Coronavirus Series:
Can Copper Help Fight COVID-19?
Copper’s Conductivity and Antimicrobial Properties Inspire Renewed Interest
Antimicrobial Copper-Containing Stainless Steels Show Promise
Using Digitally Distributed Manufacturing to Address Critical Needs
Development and Validation of High-Performance SARS-CoV-2 Antiviral Coatings for High-Touch Surfaces
