The federal government has awarded more than $300,000 to a University of Maine engineering professor who is working to increase production of an environmentally friendly disinfectant.

The U.S. Economic Development Administration awarded the money to William DeSisto, a professor of chemical and biomedical engineering at the university.

The university said DeSisto is working with manufacturers on technology to increase local production of a bleach alternative made from salt, water and electricity.

The university said increased production of the substance would be helpful during the coronavirus pandemic.