The RUBIG AntiViralCoating based on copper or copper oxide is intended to reduce or even prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria through oxidation of the surface. It is suitable for metal, plastic and filter materials.
With the aim of maximizing wear and corrosion resistance, RUBIG has already established a wide variety of carbon and titanium-based coating processes in industry. In the medical technology sector, RÜBIG was confronted with requirements such as the biocompatibility of ceramic implants and antiviral surfaces. Several years ago, as part of a COIN (Cooperation & Innovation) project, a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating was developed jointly with the Wels University of Applied Sciences to target bacteria and viruses on surfaces.
The acceptance of such surface technologies was not yet given at that time. The pandemic has brought the role of surfaces in the spread of bacteria and viruses back into focus at RUBIG and triggered the reopening of the topic under the title “RUBIG AntiViralCoating”. The aim is to equip surfaces that are exposed to increased contamination, for example in highly frequented places in public, with a coating of copper / copper oxide in order to reduce or completely prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria.
Bundled competencies
With the Wels University of Applied Sciences and Joanneum Research in Niklasdorf, external research partners also contribute their experience in the field of antiviral coatings and PVD technology. The Medical University of Graz and the Hygiene Institute carry out tests on the effect of the surfaces against viruses and bacteria. PVD technology is a strategic addition to the surface expertise for RUBIG systems and hardening technology. The PVD system and process technology developed in-house complements the product portfolio of RUBIG Industrial Furnaces as an additional, future mainstay.
4 divisions – 1 synergy
The RÜBIG Group, founded in 1946 as a die forge workshop, today consists of the divisions Industrial Furnaces, Heat Treatment, Aluminum and Die Forge. The in-house Competence Center, consisting of R&D and metallurgy laboratories, and RUBIG Technology, the youngest member of the group, represent the central foundation and catalyst for success. Here, materials science is combined with practical experience in metal refinement and processing.
3 questions to Dr. Christian Dipolt, Managing Director of the newly founded RÜBIG Technologie in Schafwiesenstrasse in Wels:
How and on which components does the coating work:
The effect against bacteria and viruses is generated by the oxidation of the surface. Components made of metal, plastic or filter materials can be coated. The filters in turn can consist of fleece or foam.
Are there differences in the coatings with regard to different virus and bacterial strains?
Yes of course! By specifically alloying chemical elements, properties such as service life, effectiveness and feel can be influenced. The type of coating can be adapted to the corresponding customer requirements and the coating system is also constantly being further developed.
Could this coating also help against corona viruses?
Tests with human corona viruses (HuCoV-229-E) show that there is a significant decrease in the infectious species after only 10 minutes of contact time. With the correct chemical composition of the coating, the number of infectious species will have fallen below the detection limit after 20 minutes.
