DRDO Transfers Anti-Microbial Technology to Boost Healthcare Hygiene

DRDO has transferred its innovative anti-microbial technology to three major textile manufacturers, aiming to enhance hygiene and reduce infections in healthcare settings. This collaboration will produce high-quality hospital linens that meet stringent healthcare standards.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has transferred its innovative anti-microbial technology to three major textile manufacturers: Mafatlal Industries Ltd, Merite Exports Ltd, and Sunil Industries Ltd. This technology, developed at DRDO's Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE), is designed to inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which are often responsible for hospital-acquired infections (HAIs).

The integration of this technology into hospital linens is a significant step toward enhancing patient safety and reducing HAIs in healthcare settings. By adopting DRDO's anti-microbial technology, these manufacturers will produce high-quality hospital linens that meet stringent healthcare standards. These linens will be available for both domestic and international markets, addressing the growing global demand for improved infection control solutions in healthcare facilities.

Mafatlal Industries, known for its diverse range of textile products, Merite Exports, a leading exporter, and Sunil Industries, specializing in fabric processing, are set to incorporate this technology into their manufacturing processes. The use of anti-microbial linens is expected to improve hygiene standards in hospitals and other healthcare facilities, reducing the burden of infections on healthcare systems.

The DRDO's technology offers unique advantages over existing anti-microbial bedsheets on the market. Specifically designed to withstand the demanding conditions of military barracks, these bedsheets retain their anti-microbial properties even after multiple washes. This durability is achieved through the inclusion of Triclosan and CTAB, which ensure long-lasting effectiveness. Additionally, DRDO has developed anti-bed bug bedsheets that remain effective against pests after repeated use.

The licensing agreements were formally handed over by DRDO Chief Samir V Kamat during a visit to the Defence Research Laboratory (DRL) in Tezpur, Assam. This event underscores DRDO's commitment to leveraging its research and development expertise for civilian applications, supporting both the armed forces and broader societal needs.

This initiative represents a collaborative effort to address the persistent challenge of HAIs. By combining scientific innovation with manufacturing capabilities, the transfer of this technology aims to create a safer and healthier environment for patients and healthcare workers alike.

The DRDO's anti-microbial technology aligns with global efforts to enhance infection control in healthcare settings. Hospital-acquired infections are a significant concern worldwide, leading to extended hospital stays, increased medical costs, and higher patient morbidity and mortality rates. Innovations like anti-microbial linens can play a crucial role in reducing these risks.

The DRDO's involvement in civilian healthcare solutions demonstrates the potential for military research and technology to benefit public health. The successful deployment of this technology in hospitals could pave the way for further collaborations between defense research institutions and the healthcare industry.

In India, the use of advanced materials and technologies in healthcare is part of a broader strategy to improve public health outcomes and ensure the safety of medical environments. By enhancing the quality of hospital linens, the DRDO's technology transfer initiative contributes to this goal, supporting India's efforts to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure and reduce the prevalence of HAIs.