AqFresh™ Cucurbiturils
Advanced Virus Neutralisation
What is it?
AqFresh™ is a revolutionary new host-guest chemistry technology using cucurbiturils. These are barrel-shaped molecules which, unlike disinfectants or bleach, help inactivate proteins and thus safely neutralise viruses (including Coronavirus and Norovirus), without any harm to cells. Viruses are neutralised on contact, when sprayed on surfaces, without any cytotoxicity.
A unique patented technology
Viruses are typically categorised as enveloped and non-enveloped. SARS-CoV-2, for example, is a coronavirus which contains RNA encased within an envelope comprising a lipid membrane decorated with glycoproteins. Non-enveloped viruses such as Norovirus also have exterior proteins.
The patented AqFresh™ technology consists of cucurbiturils. These are barrel-shaped molecules which complex with a range of chemical species, including some amino acids, and hence proteins. Certain cucurbiturils have a broad-spectrum virucidal action. They bind to protein amino acids to disrupt and irreversibly neutralise both enveloped and non-enveloped viruses.
AqFresh™ is not harmful to the environment. The cucurbiturils act as an adjuvant that helps make the overall finished product less harsh by enabling reduced concentration of the core ingredients.
The science explained in 3D video
Key virus neutralisation benefits
• Certain cucurbiturils bind to protein amino acids to irreversibly de-nature viruses.
• Versatile & easy to formulate – AqFresh™ works in a wide range of environmental conditions – both wet and dry, in a wide range of pH and temperature.
• Environmentally friendly, degradable under environmentally relevant conditions, awarded the Cradle-to-Cradle Material Health Certificate, and skin-friendly
Key applications
We are continually discovering exciting new applications for this breakthrough new virus neutralisation technology across a wide range of industries.
• Home & Pet Care – eg. air fresheners, fabric fresheners & cleaners, carpet cleaners, pet shampoos
Performance
External analysis by MSL to EN and ISO standards, and the Universities of Cambridge and Manchester, shows that cucurbiturils have exceptional efficacy of virus inactivation.
Cucurbiturils inactivate enveloped and non-enveloped viruses within 5 mins, with dose dependency. The technology is proven to be non-cytotoxic, so is safer than disinfectants because it does not kill cells.
Cucurbiturils provide antiviral performance on surfaces as a Pre-treatment or a Post-treatment application. There is a clear dose effect enabling 4 log viral reduction.
Collaborate with us
We are looking to license & supply our technology to Speciality Chemical Companies, Manufacturers and others to bring ground-breaking innovations to market.