Germ warfare takes on a whole new meaning with the setting up of joint laboratory by Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Absolute Pure EnviroSci.
With an initial funding of HK$20 million from APEL, an affiliated subsidiary of the listed company Yee Hop, the lab will develop new discoveries into health and environmental innovations.
Already, the lab has worked on a highly effective and long-lasting pest repellent against bedbugs that can also deactivate up to 99.9 percent of infectious viruses, bacteria and hard-to-kill spores. The formula, derived from the anti-pathogenic multilevel antimicrobial polymer MAP-1 - one of the earliest disinfectants to provide long-lasting protection against SARS-CoV-2 during the Covid-19 pandemic - has been certified by labs in the mainland and Switzerland of being 100 percent effective against bedbugs. This eco-friendly anti-pest spray will be used by Hong Kong athletes during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games to keep bedbugs at bay in Europe.
The formula can also be incorporated into fabrics such as cotton and linen without altering their texture, providing long-lasting antiseptic protection to clothing and accessories.
Lab researchers have also built 3D-printed cellular scaffoldings of human skin, lung, kidney, and heart cells to create artificial organoids for monitoring air and water pollutions to directly measure their potential harm to human health.
Other innovations in the works include Algi-Gel, an award-winning hydrogel that controls and prevents algae growth in fresh and seawater as well as a sustainable washable air filter for better indoor air quality and an enhanced cooling surface to improve air conditioning and cooling systems.
At the signing ceremony, Under Secretary for Environment and Ecology Diane Wong pointed out that environment and health were closely related, and climate change was the most severe and pressing challenge nowadays.
Said HKUST vice-president for eesearch and development Tim Cheng: "Joint research units are important to universities in their research, development, and knowledge transfer efforts. They provide a platform for collaboration between academia and industry, allowing us to leverage our strengths and expertise to tackle complex problems and develop innovative solutions.
"They also provide students with unique opportunities to gain practical experience and exposure to industry-relevant projects, preparing them for successful careers in their chosen fields."
ivy.ong@singtaonewscorp.com
