Soap-free bath
June 19, 2012
Ludwick Marishane's invention, DryBath, has attracted global interest from airlines, militaries, and developing countries, where poor sanitation remains a major issue.
Marishane says DryBath was inspired by a friend in the poor rural village where he grew up. The friend had said he disliked washing without hot water.
DryBath is a clear gel that works without normal soap or water. But unlike most anti-bacterial hand washes, DryBath is a biodegradable and odorless cleansing film including moisturizers.
The 22-year-old student researched his product with just a web-enabled mobile phone.
Six months later, he had developed it and obtained a patent. Marishane's invention has also won a Global Student Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Clients include major global airlines, which use it on long-haul flights, and governments that have soldiers in the field.
But Marishane says he hopes DryBath will also help conserve water in the poorest parts of the world.
za / gb