10888
Active Masks with Virus Neutralizing Properties
Willner Itamar, HUJI, Faculty of Science, The Institute of Chemistry
Pikarsky Eli, HUJI, School of Medicine - IMRIC, Immunology and Cancer Research
Pikarsky Eli, HUJI, School of Medicine - IMRIC, Immunology and Cancer Research
Professors Willner and Pikarsky are developing masks and possible ventilation systems that will contain virus neutralizing properties. They have undertaken the development of matrices that neutralize pathogens which can be incorporated into fabrics, paper, or nonreactive particles such as silica or alumina.
The matrices are based on the combination of nanoparticle catalysts and/or biocatalysts with “green” chemical components (such as glucose/fructose and ascorbic acid-vitamin C).
Active neutralization matrices comprising inexpensive biocompatible compositions and catalytic nanoparticles yield reactive oxygen species (ROS) that effectively destroy pathogens. The source for the ROS intermediates is air (oxygen).
