Let us hope that Zerocov can be beneficial for the people for the sake of a prosperous and advanced Indonesia.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is collaborating with an industry partner to develop a purifier or air sterilizer device named Zerocov to reduce the spread of viruses.

"This is an important moment in which research and innovation have reached the downstreaming process," BRIN's research and innovation utilization acting deputy Mego Pinandito said in a statement issued on Monday.

"This is proven with the creation of the Zerocov purifier through cooperation between BRIN and PT Brastow Indosukses Mandiri," he added.

The collaboration has been realized through the signing of a patent cooperation agreement for the air sterilizer device with ultraviolet C (UVC) light and phenol compounds as active sterilizing materials.

Zerocov combines three technologies: purifier, ultraviolet (UV) light, and negative ions, in addition to phenol compounds. The UV light and phenol liquid in Zerocov act as antiseptics or disinfectants.

The device does not only protect but also actively attacks and eliminates microorganisms such as viruses and bacteria.

BRIN has performed several studies and trials to ensure that the chemical substance used in the device is safe for humans.

The tests have included a study related to phenol compounds and UV utilization for air sterilization and a trial to test the effectiveness of Zerocov in slowing the growth of pathogenic microbes.

In addition, a trial has been conducted to test the safety of phenol compounds for living beings (rat specimen).

BRIN electronics research center acting head Yusuf Wijayanto said that the agency has determined the amount of phenol compounds that is safe to use and recommended Zerocov usage outside and inside enclosed spaces.

Zerocov will continue to be developed and its effectiveness against the COVID-19 virus will be tested at a bio-safety level (BSL) 3 laboratory, Wijayanto informed.

In addition, Zerocov’s smart handling development will also be done by utilizing the Internet of Things (IoT).

Wijayanto said he expects Zerocov to help stem the spread of COVID-19 and provide a sterile, healthy, fresh, as well as clean environment for the people.

"Let us hope that Zerocov can be beneficial for the people for the sake of a prosperous and advanced Indonesia," he remarked.

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Translator: Martha S, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Suharto
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