Inactivation of Aerosolized Biological Agents using Filled Nanocomposite Materials
Abstract
In this multi-institutional grant, a new method for inactivating aerosolized biological agents was developed utilizing a new class of energetic materials: filled nanocomposite materials. The implemented approach enabled a controllable release of iodine-based oxidizing species in the combustion environment to inactivate viable airborne bio-agents, such as stress-resistant bacterial spores and viruses. Composites with adjustable Al/I2 ratios were produced. A state-of-the-art experimental facility was developed for studying how novel energetic formulations and their combustion products affect the viability of aerosolized spores and viruses during a short (< 1 s) exposure times. Controlled bioaerosol dispersal and sample collection protocols were developed and optimized. The dry-heat inactivation of aerosolized spores was quantified separately from chemical effects and linked to DNA repair mechanisms. It was concluded that the iodine-containing powder provided significantly more effective inactivation of airborne spores than non-iodinated powders. The results of this research help to better understand physical, physicochemical, and biological properties associated with inactivation of aerosolized bio-agents in combustion environments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA574012
Entities
People
- A. Adhikari
- E. Dreizin
- M. Yermakov
- Mirko Schoenitz
- S. A. Grinshpun
- T. Reponen
Organizations
- University of Cincinnati