IIT Guwahati Develops Low-Cost Clay-Based Covid-19 Detection Method

Researchers at IIT Guwahati have developed a novel, affordable method to detect and measure SARS-CoV-2 using sedimentation of a clay-virus mixture. The technique uses Bentonite clay to bind viruses, offering a quicker and cost-effective alternative to PCR tests. Validated with standard methods, this approach shows potential for broader virus detection and could aid in low-resource settings. The findings were published in Applied Clay Science. Clinical trials are planned in collaboration with industry partners.