An UN-backed scientific research center has joined forces with an Italian tech firm to explore whether laser light can be used to destroy coronavirus particles that are airborne and keep indoor space safe. The device forces air through a sterilization chamber that contains a laser beam filter that kills bacteria and viruses.
“I thought lasers were more for a shaman rather than a doctor but I have had to change my mind. The device proved able to kill the viruses in less than 50 milliseconds,” said Serena Zacchigna, group leader for Cardiovascular Biology at the ICGEB.
A healthy indoor environment with less pathogen count is very important for public health in the post-COVID-19 pandemic that has already taken lives of more than 4 million people across the globe in only 18 months.
No health issues
Zacchigna teamed up with Italian engineer Francesco Zanata, founder of Eltech K-Laser, a company that makes medical lasers. Its products are very popular among sports personalities who use them to treat fractures and inflammation.
Some experts have also shed light on the downsides of using light-based technologies to attack the coronavirus. A study published by the Journal of Photochemistry & Photobiology raises concerns from potential cancer to the hefty cost of light sources.
But Zacchigna and Zanata have rubbished any health issues, saying the new laser never comes in contact with the human skin. “Our device uses nature against nature. It is 100% safe for people and almost fully recyclable,” Zanata told Reuters.
Seeking global patent for the device
However, the new tech won’t be able to eliminate viruses and bacteria when they drop on the floor or any other surface. It also cannot prevent direct contagion from person to person. The Eltech K-Laser already has a patent from Italian authorities and hopes to extend it globally.
The portable version of the new technology measures 1.8 meters (5.9 ft) in height and weighs around 55 lb. The device already has potential buyers, including Germany’s EcoCare, a service that offers testing and vaccination solutions.
“The company aims to license the technology for German and UAE markets,” an EcoCare spokesperson said in an email to Reuters.
