Details of the study were published in the journal Chemical Science.

The study was conducted by scientists in Australia, who found that the spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, stick to elements like gold, copper and silicon.

Once trapped, the findings revealed that coronavirus is electrically detectable and vulnerable to electrical pulses.

Spike proteins, metals and electrical pulses

Spike proteins allow coronaviruses to invade nearby cells and cause infections. But when these proteins touch substances like copper, it causes a reaction that creates a strong chemical bond.

The bond attaches the spike protein to their surfaces, making it very hard to remove.

But scientists found that electric fields can help destroy the spike proteins and eventually kill the virus after it loses its ability to cause infections.