| EPSRC Reference: |
EP/V041541/1 |
| Title: |
Light-activated, disposable antiviral and antimicrobial plastic films for PPE and other applications |
| Principal Investigator: |
Mills, Professor A |
| Other Investigators: |
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| Researcher Co-Investigators: |
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| Project Partners: |
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| Department: |
Sch of Chemistry and Chemical Eng |
| Organisation: |
Queen's University of Belfast |
| Scheme: |
Standard Research |
| Starts: |
01 December 2020 |
Ends: |
31 May 2022 |
Value (£): |
297,764
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| EPSRC Research Topic Classifications: |
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| Panel History: |
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
Idea: Dyes and semiconductor photocatalysts are able to generate a myriad of reactive oxygen
species which destroy viruses and bacteria. However, never before has this technology been
harnessed to make inexpensive, disposable anti-virial and anti-microbial plastic films before and
this is the primary aim of this research proposal. At present in hospitals and care homes thin
plastic disposable films are common in PPE (e.g. gowns and aprons) and curtains and coverings for
bedside cupboards and tables; but these films do not have any antiviral or antimicrobial activity,
despite the fact that this feature is desperately needed as many viruses and bacteria are able to
survive on plastic surfaces for several days (for COVID19: it is 3 days!); this project addresses this
need. The key work packages involve:
(i) Extrusion of thin, flexible antiviral/antibacterial plastic films containing either a visible light
absorbing photocatalyst or dye; with different dyes and photocatalysts to be tested to produce an
optimised product.
(ii) Testing of plastic films for antiviral activity and feedback to film production - so that an
optimised product can be generated
(iii) Testing of plastic films for antiviral activity and feedback to film production - so that an
optimised product can be generated
(iv) Engagement with commercial providers of healthcare PPE and related products, such as
Clonallon Ltd. a collaborator, in order to identify the best route to market.
Potential: As the materials to be used are inexpensive, the method of production of the thin plastic
films easily scaled, the likely impact is immeasurable.
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Key Findings |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Impacts |
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| Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
| Summary |
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| Date Materialised |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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| Project URL: |
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| Further Information: |
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| Organisation Website: |
http://www.qub.ac.uk |