Can IIT Guwahati's Clay Sedimentation Technique Accurately Detect the Covid Virus?
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Synopsis
IIT Guwahati has developed an innovative clay sedimentation method to detect SARS-CoV-2, offering a faster and more affordable alternative to traditional testing methods. This breakthrough could revolutionize virus detection and monitoring, particularly during pandemics.
Key Takeaways
- New clay sedimentation technique developed for virus detection.
- Utilizes Bentonite clay for its unique properties.
- A cost-effective alternative to traditional PCR testing.
- Method is reliable and shows accurate results.
- Can also detect other viruses like Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV).
New Delhi, June 6 (NationPress) - As a new surge of Covid-19 emerges with over 5,000 active cases, researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have pioneered an innovative method to precisely identify and quantify the presence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for Covid infections.
This groundbreaking technique relies on the sedimentation process, which evaluates the rate at which a mixture of clay, virus, and electrolyte settles. This method presents a straightforward and cost-effective alternative to existing, more intricate, and pricier methods such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), antigen, and antibody testing.
The researchers utilized Bentonite clay, renowned for its capacity to absorb pollutants and heavy metals thanks to its distinctive chemical composition.
Prior investigations have indicated that clay particles can effectively bind with both viruses and bacteriophages, making them a suitable material for virus detection.
In this study, the focus was on how Bentonite clay interacts with virus particles in a saline environment.
The findings, published in the peer-reviewed journal Applied Clay Science, revealed that a coronavirus surrogate and the Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) adhere to the negatively charged clay surfaces at room temperature and a neutral pH of 7.
“Imagine a scenario where identifying viruses is as effortless as observing sand settle in water. That is the innovation we have realized! Our method utilizes clay to swiftly detect and measure viruses, including the coronavirus,” stated Prof. T.V. Bharat from the Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Guwahati.
“By monitoring the settling behavior of clay in a solution, we can ascertain the presence and quantity of a virus. This novel approach provides a quicker, more economical, and precise alternative to current detection methods, paving the way for enhanced disease monitoring and treatment strategies, particularly during pandemics,” he added.
The new methodology yielded results that were consistent with traditional detection techniques, bolstering its credibility.
Importantly, this method can also be adapted to identify other viruses, such as the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), which impacts poultry and incurs significant losses within the agricultural sector.
Point of View
It's imperative that we highlight advancements in health technology, especially during critical times like these. IIT Guwahati's innovative clay sedimentation technique offers a promising alternative for virus detection, showcasing the potential of scientific research to address urgent public health challenges. We must continue to support and disseminate such vital breakthroughs.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new method developed by IIT Guwahati?
The new method is a clay sedimentation technique that accurately detects and quantifies the SARS-CoV-2 virus, offering a simpler and more affordable alternative to traditional testing methods.
What type of clay is used in this technique?
The technique uses Bentonite clay, which is known for its ability to absorb pollutants and heavy metals.
How does this method compare to existing virus detection methods?
This clay sedimentation method is faster, more affordable, and provides reliable results compared to conventional methods like PCR and antigen testing.
Can this method detect other viruses?
Yes, the technique can also be adapted to detect other viruses, including the Newcastle Disease Virus, which affects poultry.
What is the significance of this research?
This research represents a significant advancement in public health technology, especially relevant during pandemics, by providing a reliable and economical method for virus detection.
