Development of biodegradable and antimicrobial micro/nanofibers for disposable masks and air ventilation filters

PROJECT COST:

1 025 834 $

PRIMA CONTRIBUTION:

457 495 $

PROJECT DETAILS:

The project aims to address the need for innovation for two main reasons: first, to reduce pollution associated with the use of non-biodegradable polymers; and second, to decrease greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) to address the challenges of climate change. According to a conservative estimate, replacing one ton of LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) with PHBV(Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)) biopolymer would reduce GHG by 1600 tons. This project could therefore contribute to achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement.

According to a recent study, during the pandemic period, 3 million masks are discarded every minute, amounting to 169 billion per month. Seventy-five percent of these, along with other COVID-19 related waste, end up in landfills or pollute lakes, rivers and oceans.

One of the objectives of this project, led by Professor Reza Jafari from the University du Québec in Chicoutimi in collaboration with the IRSST and the companies Biotechnologies Be-Up and Alkegen is to produce biodegradable/compostable and antimicrobial micro/nanofibers for the manufacturing of various products, including face masks. These new micro/nanofibers masks could also be used for air filtration in ventilation devices. The ongoing challenges related to air purification in schools, along with the air sanitation needs of hospitals, office buildings, and households, highlight the growing future demand in this health focused sector.

Quebec has a unique opportunity to stand out internationally and achieve self-sufficiency in its supply of biodegradable/compostable masks and air filters. Their solution is entirely Quebec-made! In addition, the project will contribute to the training of one postdoctoral fellow, three PhD students, and six undergraduate students.