Innovative Copper Coating Promises Germ-Free Touchscreens

A new transparent copper-based coating could revolutionize the cleanliness of public and personal touch displays.

Researchers have developed a nanostructured copper surface that kills 99.9% of bacteria within two hours.
The transparent nanostructured copper surface (TANCS) maintains touchscreen functionality while being antimicrobial.
TANCS achieves transparency and non-conductivity through a process of rapid thermal annealing and nanoparticle formation.
Additional layers of SiO2 and fluorosilanes enhance the durability and environmental resistance of the coating.
While promising, the technology requires further development before commercial deployment.