Executive Summary : | The project aims to create super hydrophobic antiviral and antimicrobial hybrid nanocoatings on fiber-based PPEs, particularly protective masks and gowns made of polypropylene. The project will use nanoparticles and enzymes with proven antiviral and antimicrobial activity, disperse hybrid nanoparticles in polymer matrices, and characterize the PPEs. The project will also test the antimicrobial properties and cytotoxicity of the new hybrid NPs-based fiber-based PPEs. The project will use hydrophobically modified polymers based on polyacrylic acid and derivatives, and will apply the coatings to fiber-based PPEs. The Indian partner will supervise this task due to their experience in synthetic and natural polymer synthesis, nanoparticle synthesis, surface functionalization techniques, and plasma surface activation.
The research focuses on the development of a super hydrophobic antiviral textile technology for commercialization. The technology will be commercialized through joint publication and international patenting. The research will involve the PI of a Japanese team and an Indian partner to maintain workflow routines. The technology will be evaluated through physical, chemical, mechanical, and morphological properties, as well as antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity measurements. The team plans to share personnel, equipment, and ideas between countries to promote public understanding of science. |