AFRL Scientists Investigate: Can Microwaves Reduce Viability of Airborne Coronavirus Spread?

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The viral inactivation by directed energy radiation (VIDER) surrogate virus for SARS CoV-2 is Bovine Coronavirus (BCoV), as it has a similar morphology and size but at a Bio Safety Level 2 (courtesy graphic).
The viral inactivation by directed energy radiation (VIDER) surrogate virus for SARS CoV-2 is Bovine Coronavirus (BCoV), as it has a similar morphology and size but at a Bio Safety Level 2 (courtesy graphic).

May 29, 2020 | Originally published by Air Force Research Laboratory on April 29, 2020

ARLINGTON, VA – U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory scientists draw on their academic and industrial connections in the science and technology ecosystem to investigate the possibility of using light and radiation to decontaminate and sterilize areas exposed to the coronavirus.

The main objective of this effort is to explore whether exposure to electromagnetic (EM) energy can reduce the ability of the airborne coronavirus to infect. If so, the researchers believe they could use this knowledge to better protect military medical personnel working on the front lines of the pandemic.