Bright ideas: Visiting scholar explores textile disinfection with far-UVC light
From April to June, Visiting Scholar Talita Nicolau spent 12 weeks in St Andrews working with Lecturer Dr Robert Hammond. Her work focused on using Far-UVC light to disinfect fibre-based materials, a topic of particular relevance since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Far-UVC is a type of ultraviolet light that can kill fungi, bacteria, and viruses without damaging the skin or eyes.
Talita, a Research Fellow at the University of Minho’s Centre for Textile Science and Technology and the Life and Health Sciences Research Institute, leveraged her unique academic background during her visit. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Fashion Design, a post-licensure specialisation in organ transplant, and a Master’s degree in Biotechnology. She is also a PhD candidate in Textile Engineering at the University of Minho. She became interested in textile applications in the healthcare field during her organ transplant specialisation.
Talita was introduced to Dr Hammond by far-UVC technology expert Dr Ewan Eadie, Head of Scientific Services in the Photobiology Unit at Ninewells Hospital. Dr Hammond’s expertise in microbiology and photobiology, alongside the School of Medicine’s laboratory facilities, made St Andrews the ideal place for Talita’s research. Her visit allowed her to compare the effectiveness of Far-UVC against that of other light sources (such as mercury lamps and LEDs) in disinfecting various biological agents on different textiles. This comparative study helped address a notable gap in existing research and could lead to safer and more effective methods for disinfecting several fibre-based materials, including those of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Alongside a positive academic experience, Talita was particularly struck by the warm and inclusive environment at St Andrews. From her first day on the North Haugh, she felt embraced by the community. “At the University of St Andrews, I was home away from home,” says Talita.
Looking ahead, Talita is enthusiastic about continuing her collaboration with Dr Hammond and PhD student Marianna Leite De Avellar, exploring new research areas such as photodynamic therapy. Her visit to St Andrews not only advanced her research but also underscored the importance of interdisciplinary and international collaboration in tackling complex scientific challenges.