NSG Group has successfully developed a new antibacterial and antiviral coating for glass substrates, based on its proprietary sol-gel technology.

Copper contained in the newly developed coating, reacts with water, oxygen and other substances in the air to generate active oxygen (H2O2, OH, etc.), which in turn inactivates bacteria and viruses by destroying their envelopes and decomposing lipids, protein and gene materials.

The laboratory evaluation conducted by a public institution based on international standards has confirmed a high virus inactivation effect of 99.99% or more without the need for light activation.

In addition to the excellent antibacterial and antiviral performance with effectiveness in darker places, the coating's other properties such as high durability and transparency make it suitable for a wide range of glass applications which may be directly contacted by people. In addition to mobile information devices such as smart phones and tablets, it can be used for the operating panels and buttons of various equipment such as cash registers, ATMs, medical equipment, elevators and household appliances. The Group believes that the technology can contribute to making home and public places requiring stringent hygiene, such as hospitals, care facilities and restaurants, safer and more comfortable.

The Group plans to launch the new coating within fiscal year March 2022.