Most biological and chemical weapons countermeasures are threat-specific, dealing with one particular agent or another. This new polymer mesh contains enzymes that catalyse the production of bromine or iodine, which are deft killers of a range of bacteria. But it also contains chemicals that spur the production of nerve-agent-detoxifying compounds, making the polymer equally efficient at neutralising chemical threats.
The mesh itself is versatile as well; the researchers think they can develop it into coatings, liquid sprays, sponges and even medicines that can be used to counter bacteria, viruses and spores. The decontaminants also work in tandem without interfering with each other, meaning that even during a multi-pronged attack the materials could counter a host of threats simultaneously.
In the event of a biological or chemical attack, first responders could don suits made of decontaminating materials, set up triage tents made of the threat repelling stuff and even douse people, buildings and outdoor areas with liquid antitoxins to quickly contain and eradicate offending agents. What’s more, its ability to neutralise a range of threats means that emergency personnel could act first and ask questions later, saving valuable minutes — and lives.
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