Nano-SHIELD: Multifactorial Nanofiber Membranes as CBRN Shield for Next Generation Defense and Civil Application
CBRN: THE THREAT IS REAL
Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) threats are among the key risks for European safety. Their outbreak is often very rapid, with devastating consequences for military and civil victims. Upon CBRN attack the quick response using accessible, cost-efficient and easy-to-use CBRN protective systems might reduce the burden on health and loss of lives.
OUR VISION:
Nano-SHIELD products will have properties for elimination of bacteria, viruses (biological protection), degradation of chemicals from the air (non-specific catalysis or specific toxic molecule elimination) and attenuation of radiation (including nuclear). The systems will be in standard products including advanced face-masks (especially C&B protection), air filters (i.e. HVACs or air purifiers – C&B protection), filtering halfmasks and coveralls for emergency use in standard emergency toolboxes (ultralight and cost-efficient C&B or CBRN first aid protection equipment). This will help to have generally distributed, available and saleable protective equipment for rapid response (ideally every day in our pockets or cleaning air in our homes from general toxic molecules). Nano-SHIELD will be our first defense against CBRN threats.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES:
1. Nanofiber membranes with antimicrobial additives enabling efficient filtration and elimination of viral and bacterial contaminants. Protective effect enabling use for > 14 days, with > 95% antimicrobial efficacy.
2. Nanofiber membranes functionalized by metal-oxide nanoparticles, graphene, dendritic polymers, zeolites or MOFs (metal–organic frameworks) for efficient chemical adsorption and/or degradation, including highly toxic chemical gasses. System optimized to enable degradation of CWAs (chemical warfare agents) and VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
3. Nanofiber-based filters enabling > 95% capture of particles and aerosols, including pathogenic bacteria, viruses, dust, nanoparticles and radioactive particles.
4. Evaluation of safety effects of CBRN functional nanofibers on mammalian cultures and potential ecotoxicological burden of developed materials.
5. Sustainability of materials, enabling decrease of ecotoxicology, reduction of carbon emissions and raw materials supplies and recycling/up-cycling technologies for functional filter membranes.
6. Integration of technologies for C&B, CBRN membranes, and efficacy testing in laboratory conditions.
Project Nano-SHIELD is funded by the European Union (European Defence Fund).