• Master of Science In Architecture
  • James R. Jones
  • Lisa Tucker
  • Kay Edge
  • December 2021

Contaminated surfaces spreading diseases is a major concern in building and interior design. For instance, one person can touch a surface, whether it be a handrail or a tabletop, unknowingly and potentially spreading bacterial or viral particles to the next individual. This is especially a concern in public settings and shared spaces with high foot traffic, including commercial spaces, restaurants, hotels, offices, and healthcare facilities such as hospitals and clinics. Besides the recent coronavirus pandemic, addressing aspects of building design and construction affecting disease transmission is critical for the sake of human health and well-being. For instance, there exists research showcasing the potential for certain building and surface materials to reduce or outright prevent disease pathogens from contaminating occupants that touch them, even without arduous and frequent cleaning. Sustainability is also relevant in this research, as this affects human and environmental health as well. As such, the aim of this research and project is to provide a collaboration between the antimicrobial function and sustainability of construction materials, including wood, stone, and alternative concretes made from paper pulp or fly ash. The purpose of this project is to provide a resource for architects and designers to select building materials based on a series of criteria, including antimicrobial activity and sustainability

 

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