The idea of this project is to develop antiviral filtration systems using nanomaterials demonstrating expressed antiviral properties on surfaces processed by laser radiation. The project aims to develop functional surfaces with metal and metal oxide nanostructures and to select and apply the compositions with the highest antiviral efficacy in laser-made filtration systems. The antiviral efficacy of synthesized nanomaterials will be evaluated by utilizing SARS-CoV-2-like model animal virus strains. A unique design glass comb scaffold filter prototype functionalized with nanomaterial coatings with confirmed antiviral efficacy (consumer product) will be developed and tested under simulated conditions using model virus strains. Such antiviral filtration solutions could potentially be used as an additional stage in the purification of virus-contaminated biological fluids or as a component in virus-contaminated inhaled/exhaled air purification systems. It is anticipated that the proposed solutions will lead to a breakthrough in the treatment of severe COVID-19 patients and will reduce the spread of viral infections.
Project funding:
This research project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund according to the 2014–2020 Operational Programme for the European Union Funds’ Investments, under measure’s No. 13.1.1-LMT-K-718 activity “Research Projects Implemented by World-class Researcher Groups to develop R&D activities relevant to economic sectors, which could later be commercialized”. Funded as part of the European Union’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Project results:
While carrying out the project, it is anticipated to demonstrate the feasibility of the filter exhibiting antiviral properties, prepare scientific publications, and finally develop a filter prototype.
Period of project implementation: 2021-11-03 - 2023-09-01
Project coordinator: Kaunas University of Technology
Project partners: Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, UAB "ALTECHNA R&D"
