There’s bacteria-killing spray, bacteria-killing wipes, bacteria-killing gel and now, bacteria-killing paint.

It may sound like something from the world of science fiction, but Pittsburgh-based PPG and Corning Guardiant are making it a reality.

PPG announced Tuesday that the company has received EPA registration for its Copper Armor antimicrobial paint. It contains special technology from Corning Guardiant, which utilizes naturally occurring copper that kills 99% of bacteria and viruses that land on the paint’s surface, including the virus that causes COVID-19. It does the job within two hours of contact, and it’s effective for up to 5 years. 

“Now more than ever, our customers are seeking multiple layers of protection from viruses and bacteria on the many surfaces they’re touching while navigating the ongoing pandemic,” said Tim Knavish, PPG executive vice president, in a press release. “PPG Copper Armor with Corning Guardiant technology is the first virus-killing paint in the U.S., and will provide an extra layer of protection on the walls that surround us where we live, work and learn.”

The paint is mostly intended for use in high-traffic areas such as healthcare, hospitality, office and educational environments, but can also be used in residential environments. PPG Copper Armor also provides a mold- and mildew-resistant coating on the dry paint film. It will be available in eggshell, satin and semi-gloss, and can be tinted to more than 600 colors from the PPG paint palette.

“We started development on Corning Guardiant several years ago with the belief that copper is the key to delivering a truly effective antimicrobial coating,” said Joydeep Lahiri, division vice president and program director, Specialty Surfaces, Corning Incorporated, in a press release. “We’re excited about our partnership with PPG as well as its latest product offering – Copper Armor – which helps make antimicrobial surface technology more readily available to the public.”

PPG will begin selling the product in late 2021 at PPG Paints stores, independent retailers and select home improvement stores.