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Sze Yinn (Jessie) Wong
Chemical Engineering Grad Student |
Virucidal Coatings Using Layer-by-Layer Film Technology
As we know, layer- by -layer (LBL) assembly is a very versatile and
robust technique in creating thin films with highly adjustable
properties. Many different types and shapes of surfaces can be coated
with this technology. My research topic focuses on creating surfaces via
LBL technique with the ability to inactivate human viruses, especially
the various pathogenic strains of influenza viruses. The project is
funded by the Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies (ISN), and is in
collaboration with Professor Alexander Klibanov in the Department of
Chemistry and Professor Jianzhu Chen in the Department of Biology at
MIT. The project builds on previous four years of ISN research focused
on creating new, non-leaching bactericidal and fungicidal surfaces. LBL
film as we know it is very robust and adhere to surfaces very well. The
focus of the project is to create virucidal coatings which will
dramatically reduce the spread of influenza and possibly other
pathogenic viruses’ infections in the battlefield. These coatings can be
used to coat surfaces like weapons, equipments, uniforms, personal item,
filters and so on. A small reduction in the chances of influenza
infections will greatly enhance the readiness and performance of
soldiers and other military personnel.
