Cicada-Inspired Surfaces Kill 98% of Bacteria

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Dr. Cicada

Cicadas could revolutionize medical equipment. Researchers uncovered how the periodic pests’ wings naturally kill bacteria.

• Wings are covered w/ microscopic nanopillars

• Shreds bacteria membranes

• Synthetic nanopillars killed 98% of bacteria (similar to bleach)

They also prevented biofilm formation, often a shortcoming for bleach and other disinfectants. Further development aims to bring costs down to test nanopillar surfaces on a commercial scale. I just hope the pillars aren’t as loud as cicadas.

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