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Photocatalytic-Driven Antiviral Activities of Heterostructured BiOCl0.2Br0.8 - BiOBr Semiconductors
Razan Abbasi1, Hani Gnayem1, Yoel Sasson1
1Casali Center of Applied Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9190401, Israel.
Abstract:
Numerous methods for eliminating severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are being extensively examined in recent years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its adverse effects on society. Photocatalysis is among the most encouraging solutions since it has the capacity to fully annihilate pathogens, surpassing conventional disinfecting methods. A heterostructured photocatalytic composite of (70%W BiOCl0.2Br0.8 with 30%W BiOBr) was prepared via a simple synthetic route that yielded microspheres ∼3-4 μm in diameter. The composite was evidenced to inactivate stubborn enveloped viruses. By utilizing scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, N2 sorption, and X-ray diffraction, the morphology and the chemical composition of the heterostructured composite was revealed. Full elimination of SARS-CoV-2 occurred 5 min following the light-activation of the photocatalytic mixture. Illumination absence bared a slower yet effective result of full viral decomposition at a time span of 25 min. A comparable efficacious outcome was observed in the study case of vesicular stomatitis virus with complete diminishing within 30 min of visible light exposure.
Insights
A novel photocatalyst effectively inactivates SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses. This advanced material offers a promising solution for disinfection, rapidly eliminating pathogens with or without light.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
- Virology
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgent need for effective SARS-CoV-2 elimination methods.
- Photocatalysis presents a promising approach for pathogen inactivation, potentially outperforming conventional disinfection techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel heterostructured photocatalytic composite for inactivating severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
- To assess the efficacy of the photocatalyst under different light conditions.
Main Methods:
- A heterostructured photocatalytic composite (70% BiOCl0.2Br0.8 with 30% BiOBr) was synthesized.
- Morphology and composition were characterized using SEM, TEM, N2 sorption, and XRD.
- Inactivation efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 and vesicular stomatitis virus was tested under visible light irradiation and in darkness.
Main Results:
- The synthesized composite formed microspheres with a diameter of 3-4 μm.
- Complete inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 was achieved within 5 minutes of light activation.
- Viral decomposition was also effective in the absence of light, completing within 25 minutes.
- Vesicular stomatitis virus was completely inactivated within 30 minutes of visible light exposure.
Conclusions:
- The developed heterostructured photocatalyst demonstrates high efficacy in inactivating enveloped viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.
- This material offers a rapid and effective disinfection strategy, with significant potential for public health applications.
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