On this episode, Dr. Chris Arnusch joins me to discuss some of his research work in the fight against COVID-19. With the worldwide focus on coronavirus prevention and transmission, a new type of air-filter that self-sterilizes and decontaminates is being developed at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev in Israel.
This new nanotechnology is based on laser-induced graphene (LIG) water filters that eliminate viruses and bacteria in water. This new concept, engineered for air-filtration could be used in air filters in heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems.
It could also be integrated into face masks for a self-sterilizing effect. Most masks like the N95 can become contamination risks during usage if not properly handled.
LIG is a microporous graphene foam that can be generated on many types of materials and is already resistant to bacteria and actively kills microbes and viruses using a low-level electric current from a power source.
Dr. Arnusch and his group of researchers envision the two-fold protective system applied to air-filtration offering a new solution in our fight against COVID-19.
We’ll be discussing this technology using LIG and how it can be applied to N95 masks and other filtration technology.
The research is being supported by a seed grant as part of the BGU COVID-19 Response Effort, one of 50 initiatives funded. These require financial support, and AABGU has announced its commitment to raise emergency funds, to participate in the world’s efforts at mitigation and containment. Contributions can be made online at www.aabgu.org/donate-covid-19.
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