Distinguished Scientist Seminar Series featuring Kai Liu, PhD – “Reusable Smart Masks using Nanoporous Metal Foams”

Kai Liu, PhD
Professor and McDevitt Chair in Physics
Georgetown University

Location: New Research Building Auditorium and via Zoom: https://georgetown.zoom.us/j/99357306789

“Reusable Smart Masks using Nanoporous Metal Foams”

Central to the rapid spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections is the transmission by airborne viral particles. Indeed, ultrafine particles below 0.3 microns, such as majority of the pollutant particles found in smog and wild fires, can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, posing severe health risks. There is an urgent need for the development of efficient, durable, reusable and recyclable filters for the deep submicron size range. Here we report the realization of efficient particulate filters using nanowire-based copper foams with tunable porosity and density. Such foams combine extremely large surface areas with excellent mechanical and anti-microbial properties. We have further investigated the correlation between foam microstructures and the filtration performance. Our results demonstrate a new type of filters that may be used to protect against multi-hazards carried by airborne pollutants and pathogens.