Aim of the research project are hydrolyzable coatings based on peptide mimetics (bioinspired coatings) in order to achieve sustainable hygiene of elastic floorings. Such coatings are partially hydrolyzed during daily maintenance cleaning with release of peptide mimetics (process-induced release of peptide mimetics).

Released peptide mimetics lead to inactivation of pathogens: Between two decontamination measures, low concentrations of pathogens that reach the bioinspired coatings, e.g. by carryover, are immediately inactivated (antibacterial or antiviral effect).

In the case of contamination with high concentrations of pathogens (e.g. in form of potentially infectious soiling such as blood or excrements), a disinfecting effect of the bioinspired filming is initiated when a cleaner is applied during maintenance cleaning or local soil removal.

A broad spectrum of activity of bioinspired coatings against human pathogens (including bacteria such as MRSA and enveloped viruses such as SARS-CoV-2) is ensured by targeted optimization of molecular structure of peptide mimetics and, if necessary, combination of different peptide mimetics.

Use of bioinspired coatings makes it possible to counteract spread of human pathogens and thus to increase hygiene safety. It can therefore be assumed that hygiene commissions will include application of bioinspired coatings in their hygiene plans.

Cleaning service providers with a high level of expertise in the application of coating systems can expand their market share by providing a new innovative service.