Implementation of Effectiveness Evaluation of Sterilization Methods Against Novel Coronavirus

The National Institute of Technology and Evaluation implements an evaluation of the effectiveness of sterilization methods using kitchen detergents, etc. against the novel coronavirus.

In order to cope with the spread of the novel coronavirus and to increase the options for sterilization methods using agents other than alcohol at home and in workplaces, the National Institute of Technology and Evaluation (NITE) has been implementing research in the form of literature reviews in response to a request from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

On April 15, 2020, a review committee session of experts was held based on the results of the research so far, and the following have been selected as sterilization methods that have the possibility of being effective against the novel coronavirus.

  • “Surfactant (kitchen detergents, etc.)”
  • “Hypochlorous acid solution (generated with the electrolysis method)”
  • “Quaternary ammonium salt”

NITE is beginning to evaluate the effectiveness of these sterilization methods. While hearing opinions from the review committee, it will implement research in the form of literature reviews, hearings with experts, and verification tests using viruses according to discussion on FY2020 Draft Supplementary Budget.