This wearable ring repels insects

Researchers from Germany have developed a wearable ring designed to scare away insects. With the help of a 3D printer, they introduced a special insect repellent into the biodegradable polymer of the insect ring.

Which is the deadliest animal on our planet? Lions, sharks or snakes probably come to mind for many. But far from it. Mosquitoes are the deadliest creatures on earth. Insects transmit numerous diseases.

With the advancing climate change, they are also spreading rapidly in this country. Therefore, innovative solutions are needed to prevent the transmission of dangerous diseases. Researchers of Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg have now developed a wearable ring intended to scare away mosquitoes.

3D printed ring repels mosquitoes

The insect ring relies on an agent that has already established itself as an insect repellent: IR3535. This is a substance from the pharmaceutical company Merck. The agent is already used in many sprays and co. The insect ring should therefore not pose a risk either, because the skin compatibility of the agent has been officially confirmed.

For the new ring, the researchers inserted IR3535 into a biodegradable polymer using a 3D printer. Many different shapes were then created from the polymer, which the scientists tested for their practicability. However, the round shape of a ring has proven to be ideal.

The deterrent effect currently lasts up to a week

How long the deterrent effect lasts depends on various factors. Including the temperature, the concentration of IR3535 and the structure of the polymer. According to the researchers, an insect ring lasts about a week at a normal body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius. A regular exchange is therefore necessary.

However, it will be some time before the insect ring goes on sale. Because the scientists first have to carry out further tests to ensure maximum effectiveness. The end product could then also be a bracelet or bangle.

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