Treating Metal Surfaces to Kill Bacteria (VIDEO) Purdue University This video is under embargo. Please login to access this video. Caption Bacterial pathogens can live on surfaces for days. What if frequently-touched surfaces such as doorknobs could instantly kill them off? Credit Purdue University/Erin Easterling Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.