ASX-listed nanotechnology play Nanoveu (ASX:NVU) is seeking to revolutionise mobile phone safety, unveiling a smartphone cover and screen protection technology capable of killing viruses.
The anti-viral protection, which is a clear screen to be applied to phone covers and screens, has been demonstrated to be effective against viruses and bacteria – including influenza A (subtype H3N2) and E. coli.
While commonplace anti-bacterial phone covers already exist, these technologies are unable to kill viruses and Nanoveu hopes to disrupt the market, given its recent success in combating coronaviruses.
Commenting on the nanotechnology, Nanoveu Executive Chairman and CEO Alfred Chong said:
“Coincident with the advent of COVID-19, Nanoveu was presented with an opportunity to advance an antimicrobial technology which is effective in providing protection against viruses. Nanoveu commenced its research for this product line in second half of 2019, and I am pleased to see initial results validate our decision to investigate further.
“Mobile phones are both ubiquitous and rely upon touch to operate, making them prime candidates for the spread of disease. Therefore, we anticipate that there will be strong interest in a technology which can protect phone users from viruses and bacteria in a way which is non-invasive and unobtrusive.
“This product is exceptionally exciting as it combines Nanoveu’s nanotechnology specialisation with an innovative solution which is expected to assist in resolving a major concern for many people around the world.”
To date Nanoveu has produced 12 screen protector prototypes, which will receive further testing by independent authorities in both the USA and Singapore to confirm the anti-viral capacity.
Additionally, the company will be seeking approval from the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) as a medical device.
The technology could have a very rapid commercialisation time frame, with the company estimating both the screen protector and case to be available for sale in late Q2 2020 / early Q3 2020.
