Scientists from 15 European countries are discussing their latest developments in the field of antimicrobial coatings for use in public buildings at Sofia Tech Park. The meeting is taking place today and tomorrow and is part of the “STOP – Surface transfer of Pathogens” project funded by the Horizon Europe programme. The project leader on the Bulgarian side is Assoc. Prof. Albena Daskalova from the Institute of Electronics of BAS.
The work of the Bulgarian researchers is focused on the application of light in the form of ultra-short laser radiation to create innovative and time-resistant antibacterial surfaces. The idea is to invent micro- and nano-structure surfaces made of steel, copper and polymers which are used in the manufacture of door handles for the metro, operating theatres, children’s climbing frames as well as restaurant countertops. Scientists aim to create durable, self-cleaning surfaces that reject bacteria and are more effective against dirt.
The Director of the Institute of Electronics, Assoc. Prof. Tatyana Kutsarova, opened the two-day forum and congratulated the participants. During the meeting, scientists from fifteen research institutes and companies from Europe will present their scientific results under the project. The “STOP – Surface transfer of Pathogens” project will continue until the end of 2026.
