Neuropathogens and Nasal Cleansing: Use of Clay Montmorillonite Coupled with Activated Carbon for Effective Eradication of Pathogenic Microbes from Water Supplies

ACS Chem Neurosci. 2020 Sep 16;11(18):2786-2788. doi: 10.1021/acschemneuro.0c00539. Epub 2020 Sep 1.

Abstract

Herein, we propose the use of novel adsorbents, namely micelle clay complexes comprising the clay montmorillonite, coupled with activated carbon for effective eradication of neuropathogenic microbes such as SARS-CoV-2 and Naegleria fowleri from water supplies for ablution/nasal irrigation. These can be incorporated easily to water collection devices, i.e., taps and water bottles, in the domestic setting. These filters are low cost, easy to install, and ideal disinfection systems. Such strategies are particularly useful for communities who have lack of access to safe water supplies, rely heavily on water storage tanks, or lack adequate water sanitation facilities, especially in developing countries.

Keywords: COVID-19; low cost filtration system; novel adsorbents; pathogen removal; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; water disinfection.

MeSH terms

  • Bentonite
  • Betacoronavirus
  • COVID-19
  • Central Nervous System Protozoal Infections / prevention & control
  • Charcoal
  • Clay
  • Coronavirus Infections / prevention & control*
  • Filtration / instrumentation
  • Filtration / methods*
  • Humans
  • Naegleria fowleri
  • Nasal Lavage
  • Pandemics / prevention & control*
  • Pneumonia, Viral / prevention & control*
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Water Purification / instrumentation
  • Water Purification / methods*

Substances

  • Bentonite
  • Charcoal
  • Clay