Lasting Antimicrobial

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Brief Description: The novel polymer of this innovation has permanent antimicrobial properties and can be spun into nanofibers.The antibacterial polymer can be used for the production of antimicrobial filter elements, membranes and coatings. It is ideal for the manufacture of surgical masks, air purification systems and water purification systems. Target Market: All sectors requiring self-sterilising materials, for example, hospitals and water treatment facilities, pharmaceutical companies, medical equipment manufacturers, and membrane and nano-filter producers. Stellenbosch University is interested in licensing and/or co-development and commercialisation of this technology. Value Propositions/ Benefits: The uniqueness of this antimicrobial polymer is that the filter elements, membranes or coatings manufactured from the polymer is antimicrobial in itself, making it different from other commercially available filter elements and membranes. The antimicrobial properties are core characteristics of the filter element, membranes and coatings and are not simply embedded into the polymers to leach there from over time. This means extended antimicrobial activity. The antimicrobial polymer of this invention may be effective against diseases such as cholera, anthrax and pestis. The antimicrobial polymer is cheap to manufacture as it: exhibits recyclable, non-leaching properties; and  is easily mass produced using a simple chemical modification of a commercially available base polymer. The filter elements, membranes or coatings manufactured from this antimicrobial polymer is ideal for purifying air and water in environments where sterility is of vital importance. It is highly effective as it not only filters out micro-organisms, but also kills or inhibits growth of several threatening pathogenic bacteria. The non-leaching substance retains its properties after several wash steps without the need for additives. Technical Description: The material consists of a novel antimicrobial polymer, other than the usual quaternary ammonium salt-based polymers. The material, which is easily mass produced, can be electrospun into nanofibers, with diameters in the range of 100-1000 nm, onto suitable support substrates for the production of filters and membranes. The resulting filters/membranes/coatings display permanent antimicrobial properties that are useful for air and water purification. Innovation Status: A national phase application was filed for this invention.