Sticker in biometric devices to help prevent infections

CHENNAI: Biometric identification system, which involves capturing fingerprints, has been a technology on the rise to establish an individual's identity be it for Aadhaar, visa applications or even to mark attendance at offices.But these devices can also be a potential source of germs.Studies show pathogens like staphylococcus aureus and E-Coli easily spread through such contact points.

A city-based startup Microgo has come up with a simple technology that works on a small patch-like sticker installed in these biometric systems which can sanitize fingers before or after the use of the device, thereby preventing infection transfer. The technology `Push n Disinfect' was launched on Sunday at the India International Science Festival.

BARC scientist-turnedentrepreneur Rachna Dave said the patches made of specialized silicon-based polymer are stuck on the biometric fingerprint reading devices. An alcohol or water-based sterlising agent is stored in these polymers. Upon using the fingerprint reading device, the user can press on the patch with the same finger. A solution immediately oozes out and works as a sanitizer killing germs.

Dave said the polymer is designed in such a way that the germs a user passes onto the surface of the device also gets killed in the process. "We use this patch for as many ass 400 times," she said.

It is not just these fingerprint reading devices that could be a Petri dish of pathogens. Other objects like door knobs and handles could also be hotspots for infection transfer. For sterlising tiny non-detachable objects, the same disinfectant in the form of a solution or gel on a larger polymer sticker has been designed. She added that the patch could be used in the food industry , hospitals, schools, colleges and other workplaces.