Developing metal nanoparticle surfaces and the combination of polyionic liquids with nanoparticles as antimicrobial coatings

SARS-CoV-2 has emphasized the need for antimicrobial defenses in our environment. We need to minimize the risk of microbe transfer between people via touching a common surface. This project, led by the University of Windsor and Ontario coatings companies Tessonics and ONTech Rapid Coatings, combines three different strategies to develop a persistent antiviral coating that can be applied to surfaces and that will destroy the virions on contact. It will be safe for human contact, and comfortable to the touch. It could be applied to door handles in public buildings, handles on gas pumps, keypads on payment systems, elevator buttons, electrical switches and other surfaces that are awkward to disinfect constantly and are touched by many people. This is especially useful in public shared spaces such as airports and at large utility companies.

Faculty Supervisor:

John Trant

Student:

Partner:

Tessonics Inc;OnTech Rapid Coatings Inc

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Windsor

Program: