Panjab University Scientists Create Antibacterial Paint Additive

Panjab University (PU) researchers have developed a groundbreaking paint additive designed to reduce hospital infections, a critical concern heightened by the Covid-19 pandemic. The innovation received an Indian patent on December 31, 2025, marking a significant advancement in infection control measures within healthcare settings.

Collaboration During the Pandemic

The project, led by Gaurav Verma from the Department of Chemical Engineering and Nanotechnology, was born out of collaborative research efforts during the pandemic. He worked alongside Avneet Saini, Shubhi Joshi, and MSc student Deeksha Sharma. Their additive is engineered to kill harmful bacteria on surfaces, enhancing safety across hospital environments, including walls, beds, and furniture.

Significantly, this paint additive is non-toxic and does not release harmful substances into the air, ensuring safety for indoor use. The potential applications for this technology are extensive, with prospects for widespread implementation in hospitals and clinics to mitigate infection rates and bolster patient safety.

Addressing a Critical Issue

The need for such innovations became starkly evident during the Covid-19 pandemic. Hospital-acquired infections, particularly during the delta wave of 2021-22, resulted in numerous fatalities. These infections frequently spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, highlighting the urgency for effective preventive measures.

The journey towards this innovation began in 2018 when Shubhi Joshi, a food microbiologist, approached Gaurav Verma for her PhD. Although she excelled in the PU PhD entrance examination, she faced challenges gaining admission in her field. Verma welcomed her into his lab, presenting her with a complex research challenge focused on nanomaterials.

Despite the constraints imposed by the pandemic, the research team continued their work while adhering to safety protocols. Their diligence culminated in the successful development of the antibacterial paint additive, finalized in 2022. Currently, Shubhi Joshi serves as an ICMR Woman Scientist, maintaining her collaborative efforts with the PU research group.

Verma expressed pride in the project, emphasizing his belief that every student can contribute to meaningful scientific advancements. He stated, “Science should directly help society,” adding that paints should not only enhance the aesthetic of buildings but also play a role in saving lives.

The development of this innovative paint additive underscores the ongoing commitment of Panjab University to address significant health challenges through scientific research. As infection control continues to be a pressing global issue, this breakthrough offers a promising solution to enhance safety in healthcare environments.