Nov-2020
Bacteria-Fighting RepelWrap Wins ‘Create the Future’ Design Contest
A research team at McMaster University has developed a self-cleaning surface that instantly repels viruses and bacteria – and could potentially prevent the transfer of superbugs (strains of bacteria resistant to most antibiotics). The transparent flexible film can be shrink-wrapped to fit onto door handles, railings, and other surfaces that act as magnets for bacteria. Inspired by the water-repellant lotus leaf, RepelWrap can be manufactured onto biodegradable and green plastic materials to alleviate concerns about sustainability and recyclability. RepelWrap has been awarded the Grand Prize of $20,000 in the 2020 “Create the Future” Design Contest, produced by SAE Media Group.
Leyla Soleymani, Co-inventor, said “I’m really thankful to the judges, and the contest sponsors for proving the opportunity for us to present our innovation to the world. We believe the recognition from this contest will provide us with tremendous opportunities in our efforts aimed at translating this innovation into a marketable product for improving health and wellbeing in our society.”
Engineers and students from 60 countries submitted new product ideas to the contest, which was established in 2002 to recognize and reward engineering innovations that benefit humanity, the environment, and the economy. This year’s contest was co-sponsored by COMSOL (www.comsol.com) and Mouser Electronics (www.mouser.com). Analog Devices and Intel were supporting sponsors.
Read the full article here