Research shows that in the near future, Zika virus, coronaviruses and enteroviruses can be combated with a bio-based raw material from the Finnish forest nature. The material is antiviral; in other words, it destroys viruses on surfaces and on skin. Its effect is based on microbial activity and raw materials from the forest. Source: forest fi
The innovation is the result of collaboration between Natural Resources Institute Finland and the University of Jyväskylä and is expected to have great market potential.
The material can be used as an ingredient in antiviral cosmetics, which are the subject of great interest globally, as well as in cleaning agents. Commercial production is expected to begin next year.
For cosmetics applications, the most promising market is in Asia.
“We are particularly interested in Japan and South Korea. The demand for cosmetics is already high in these countries and continues to grow,” says Riikka Linnakoski, Group Manager and Project Manager at Natural Resources Institute Finland; her research areas are forest health and biodiversity.
Ms Linnakoski says that during a pandemic, safe and effective solutions are needed to combat viruses.
“Antiviral products are associated with the need to find sustainable, bio-based solutions that do not increase the chemical burden on the environment,” she said.
The new material can replace alcohol-based products which, according to Ms Linnakoski, are not necessarily effective against all viruses.
“Alcohol-based cleaning agents irritate and damage skin, especially in long-term use, and they also destroy the beneficial bacteria found on skin.”
When the virus comes into contact with our product, it loses its capability of infecting human cells.
At the University of Jyväskylä, the studies conducted by Professor Varpu Marjomäki and her virology team have shown that the innovation works by directly destroying the infectiousness of the virus.
“When the virus comes into contact with our product, it loses its capability of infecting human cells. As the result of various natural processes, the product also contains substances that are beneficial to the skin, so that it has a broad spectrum of uses,” Ms Linnakoski says.
However, Ms Linnakoski does not provide more details on the discovery, such as what type of forests the raw materials are found in.
The team is also studying the possibility of utilizing forest industry side streams, such as sawdust or pulp.
Another object of study are the face masks so important during the COVID-19 pandemic. They can be made more eco-friendly thanks to biodegradable, wood-based innovations.
