The STOP (Surface Transfer Of Pathogens) research project seeks to develop a new generation of antimicrobial agents that can be deployed on surfaces to reduce the likelihood of bacteria or viruses being transmitted between people. This is particularly important for surfaces that are touched by many people (such as holds or buttons in public transport vehicles) or surfaces used by vulnerable populations (such as counter-tops in nursing homes).

This project is funded by the European Commission, together with Switzerland and the United Kingdom, and is being implemented by fifteen research institutes and companies.

The project’s nanocoatings are expected to significantly reduce infections transmitted via high-touch surfaces and thus healthcare costs, and to provide and alternative to currently used disinfectant materials .