BIOCOMPATIBLE SPACE-CHARGED ELECTRET MATERIALS WITH ANTIBACTERIAL AND ANTIVIRAL EFFECTS AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE THEREOF

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application discusses biocompatible space-charge electret materials with antibacterial and antiviral properties. These materials are designed to combat harmful microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, which pose significant health risks. The invention focuses on creating effective antimicrobial compositions by combining space-charge electret materials with hydrophobic substances, offering an environmentally friendly solution for disinfection.

Functionality

The space-charge electret materials exhibit high positive surface charge density, which is crucial for their antimicrobial effectiveness. This positive charge attracts negatively-charged proteins on microorganisms, increasing collision rates and leading to contact electrification. The subsequent electrostatic interactions cause microbial proteins to shear off, effectively neutralizing the pathogens. The uniform distribution of positive charge across the material's surface enhances this process.

Material Composition

The invention utilizes cationic polymers such as gelatin, chitosan, and polyethylenimine, which disrupt microbial cell membranes upon contact. These polymers can be natural or synthetic and are integrated into textile substrates like cotton, polyester, and nylon. The combination of high positive charge density and hydrophobicity in these materials aids in the efficient destruction of microbes through lipophilic interactions.

Measurement Techniques

A method for evaluating the antimicrobial properties involves measuring the electrostatic charge of space-charge electret materials. This is done using a double-layered device with acrylic plates and reference materials like PTFE film. The positive charge density provides a quantitative measure of the contact electrification performance, essential for assessing the material's efficacy.

Advantages

The disclosed materials offer significant benefits over traditional disinfectants and metal ion-based antimicrobials, which can be toxic and environmentally harmful. These space-charge electret materials are biocompatible, safe for direct contact, and suitable for long-term use in applications such as personal protective equipment. They demonstrate high viral and bacterial filtration efficacy while maintaining compatibility with human cells, making them ideal for industrial-scale production.