Our interdisciplinary working group was motivated by the challenge to propose tools to combat the sudden pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 in 2020 and today. We obtained several formulations based on chitosan, a biodegradable, non-antigenic, non-toxic and biocompatible natural polymer. These formulations have different characteristics and applications. We have developed new antiviral cotton fabrics impregnated with various formulations based on chitosan, citric acid, and copper nanoparticles. The resulting impregnated textiles demonstrated integrated properties of good adhesion without significant changes in their appearance and effectiveness against herpes virus and beta-coronavirus (~100%), which allowed them to serve as a scalable biocidal layer in protective equipment, providing contact killing of pathogens. Our work describes for the first time the antiviral effect of chitosan-based preparations with copper nanoparticles. This proposal can be considered a potential tool for inhibiting the reproduction and spread of enveloped viruses, including SARS-CoV-2.

Another major current challenge is to optimize the use of personal protective equipment without compromising biosecurity. For this proposal, we have obtained sprayable products based on chitosan. It is known that the combination of both metals (copper and silver) enhances the antibacterial activity of each. We have obtained the first antiviral spray based on chitosan and both (silver and copper) nanoparticles. The spray has a simplified production, with potential use in industry, is easy to use and apply, for home use, biodegradable, has an instant antiviral effect, has antibacterial effect, is non-toxic and does not cause skin irritation. The spray is applicable to all types of woven and non-woven materials, plastic surfaces. The introduction of this type of spray product will allow the reuse of face masks without the need for sterilization or removal after use. Thus, the two main advantages of chitosan compositions are the prevention of the spread of viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. Secondly, these technologies will greatly contribute to the reduction of waste production.

The introduction of this type of sprayable product will allow the reuse of face masks without the need for sterilization or removal after use. Thus, the two main advantages of chitosan compositions are the prevention of the spread of viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. Secondly, these technologies will greatly contribute to the reduction of waste production. The introduction of this type of spray product will allow the reuse of face masks without the need to sterilize or remove them after use. Thus, the two main advantages of chitosan compositions are the prevention of the spread of viruses, including SARS-CoV-2. Secondly, these technologies will greatly contribute to the reduction of waste production.

Audience outreach:

• This work contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the development of antiviral drugs used in materials.
• The audience will learn how certain antiviral agents can be applied to materials, turning them into functional materials.
• This work will provide tools to develop antiviral drugs applicable to surfaces for different types of viruses, the constant emergence and re-emergence of viruses worldwide must be stopped with products that not only work on the patient but also prevent the spread of the virus.