Reusable Face-Masks and Safe-to-Touch Covers Based on Flexible Large-Area Virus-Inactivating Electronic Layers

• Applicants: Dr.-Ing. Bahman K. Boroujeni; Dr. Hans Kleemann; Professorin Dr. Stephanie Pfänder
• Subject Area: Electronic Semiconductors, Components and Circuits, Integrated Systems, Sensor Technology, Theoretical Electrical Engineering ; Virology
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 458610711

Emerging infections are a constant threat as exemplified by the current pandemic. This situation presented us with new challenges regarding prevention of airborne and surface transmittable pathogens. More effective protective measures are needed against newborn pathogens, and in this regard, face-masks are the front-line defense against bio-aerosols- and droplets.Organic and flexible electronics is an emerging technological platform that can potentially be utilized for pathogen inactivation. It offers innovative methods of manufacturing for applications that require mechanical flexibility, low-cost and large-area circuits, in addition to being potentially environmentally-friendly and suitable for integration into textiles and on-body applications.In this multidisciplinary research, we combine electronics, physics and virology to develop new preventive measures against emerging pathogens including SARS-CoV-2.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Co-Investigator: Dr. Christina Sengstock