Photocatalytic antiviral activity of zinc hydroxide for H1N1 virus under weak visible light

Viral infections mainly occur in indoor environments, it is suggested that visible light-sensitive antiviral photocatalyst is highly desired. Here we developed a photocatalysis system based on zinc hydroxide (Zn(OH) 2 ) to efficiently generate antiviral radicals on mask surface under weak visible light. The weak visible light induced the Zn(OH) 2 photocatalysis and completed the inactivation of H 1 N 1 virus for short time. In addition, the inactivating efficiency was improved greatly by adding a natural washing agent layer. Our system could inactivate H 1 N 1 influenza virus completely rapidly under the irradiation of weak visible light. The discovery will open up a new research field, and enrich and promote the development of photocatalysis theory and practice.