 interesting
{i swiped the article from disovery page}
A funny thing happens when you add titanium dioxide to paint and then hit it with fluorescent light: bacteria die. Well, okay. Not so funny for bacteria. But it could be an effective way to destroy superbugs in hospitals, public and commercial facilities, schools and residential kitchens, baths and floors would be significant . Think about it. Just add titanium dioxide -- the white compound that makes the "M" on M&M candies -- to paint, put it on the walls and then turn on the lights.
In lab tests, Lucia Caballero from Manchester Metropolitan University, found that the food poisoning bacterium Escherichia coli was killed under normal, fluorescent light. Here's why: When the titanium dioxide absorbs energy from the light, a chemical reaction occurs that results in two molecules, hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anions. Both work to decompose microorganisms by causing cell rupture and leakage of vital composition.
With rising concern about the spread of hospital superbugs, this new kind of paint could be one cost-effective way to healthcare maintain hygienic standards.  |