Abstract

The recent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic arose due to its ease of spreading, exacerbated by its ability to reproduce in asymptomatic carriers. Symptomatic patients of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) risk severe respiratory illness that can be fatal. Novel methods must be implemented to inhibit the proliferation of SARS-CoV-2 and similar pathogens. By coating face masks and face shields (commonly known as PPEs) with engineered nanoparticles embedded in a polyelectrolyte thin film, the PPEs can be imbued with antimicrobial properties and offer improved protection from pathogens. The Layer by layer (LBL) technique was performed to coat PPEs with antimicrobial polyelectrolyte thin films embedded with nanoparticles smaller than 15nm. The coatings were confirmed by physical studies, including XPS and SEM, to evaluate the morphology and chemistry of the composite films. E. coli was used as a model microbe for antimicrobial studies where it was cultured on coated PPEs. Significant inhibition was observed. Based on these results, PPE coated with this material shows promise for bacterial and possibly viral protection of healthcare workers.

Thesis Completion

2023

Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Seal, Sudipta

Degree

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

College

College of Medicine

Department

Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences

Degree Program

Biomedical Sciences; Biotechnology

Language

English

Access Status

Campus Access

Length of Campus-only Access

1 year

Release Date

5-15-2024

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