3D array plans to develop a new type of nanostructure array (NANOARRAY) integrated microfibers for use in medical masks with high filtration efficiency, low breathing resistance, and good…

3D Array Technology LLC (3Dat) was awarded a $1.6 million cooperative agreement from the Department of Commerce National Institute of Standards and Technology under the Science, Technology, Business and/or Education Outreach federal grant program (CFDA 11.620) to develop new nanostructure array integrated microfibers for use in medical masks.

During Phase I, 3Dat will fabricate conformal nanoarrays on microfibers and evaluate the filtration efficiency, breathing resistance, and structure-property relationships of prototype antimicrobial masks. In Phase II, 3Dat will develop prototype medical mask and respirator products, conduct standard testing, develop a pilot-scale manufacturing system, and conduct market research and cost analysis. The University of Connecticut and University of Minnesota will provide support in nanoarray synthesis, antimicrobial activity evaluation, and filtration testing as subrecipients. The award runs from October 1, 2022 through July 31, 2025.

Activities

During the phase I, feasibility stage, 3D array will fabricate conformal nanoarrays on the microfibers for antimicrobial masks; evaluate the filtration efficiency and breath resistance of the nanoarray masks; elucidate the structure-property relationships of nanoarray based medical masks; and demonstrate the feasibility of scalable manufacturing of the nanoarray based masks.during the phase II prototype stage, 3D array will develop prototype products for the nanoarray based antimicrobial medical masks; conduct the standard tests on the prototype medical masks and respirators; develop the pilot scale manufacturing system for nanoarray based antimicrobial masks; conduct market research and find potential partners and customers; and conduct cost and energy efficiency analysis.

Expected outcomes

The successful development of this project will help to establish the new design and standards for the next generation of masks and medical filtration equipment.

Intended beneficiaries

3D array plans to commercialize its mask development technologies to meet the needs of the customers in various industries with special focus on the medical masks and respirator market.

Subrecipient activities

3D array?S subcontractor?S, the university of connecticut, and university of minnesota, will provide support in nanoarray synthesis and antimicrobial activity evaluation and filtration tests.