Filtration Device

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a novel filtration device that combines a functionalized graphene or graphene oxide layer with an antimicrobial composite made from metallic silver and ruthenium. The graphene-based active layer captures and binds microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses, while the antimicrobial composite generates reactive oxygen species to kill these microorganisms. The design is modular and can be incorporated into various substrates such as fabrics, polymers, ceramics, and metals, enabling broad application in air and water filtration for enhanced microbial control.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Medical masks, gowns, gloves, and drapes with embedded antimicrobial filtration for hospitals and clinics
• Air and water purification systems for healthcare, public facilities, or residential settings
• Filtration in HVAC systems to prevent pathogen spread in buildings
• Filtration devices for water treatment and sewage facilities to control biofilm and microbial contamination
• Protective filters for industrial cleanrooms, laboratories, or food production environments
• Portable or mobile personal protective filters (PPE) for first responders and travelers
• Filtration systems at pipe outlets to reduce microorganism release from biofilms in water/air pipes

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Efficient capturing and killing of a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria (even antibiotic-resistant strains), viruses, fungi, and spores
• Complies with strict European safety regulations (e.g., EN 13795) and avoids release of toxic antimicrobial substances
• Non-toxic to humans and the environment, with no hazardous byproducts
• No need for energy input or heating for disinfection (works passively)
• High flow rates due to larger pores compared to microfiltration, making it suitable for high-volume air or water filtration
• Lightweight and easy to incorporate into existing or new filtration systems and products
• Durable with self-cleaning/regenerating properties, supporting long-term usability
• Cost-effective and suitable for large-scale production and deployment
• Reduces formation and release of biofilms, mitigating persistent microbial contamination

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a filtration device 1 comprising at least one active layer 2 and at least one antimicrobial composite 3. The invention further concerns a method for producing a filtration device and filter systems comprising at least two substrates or components. The filtration device 1 may comprise two substrates, substrate A being provided with a chemically functionalized graphene or graphene oxide layer (active layer 2) and substrate B being coated with an antimicrobial composite 3 comprising silver and ruthenium ("AGXX"). The active layer 2 comprises graphene or graphene oxide functionalized by ionic groups so that it can attract microorganisms 4 and endotoxins (Step I), which are then captured and bound by the active layer 2 (Step II). The antimicrobial composite 3 produces and releases reactive oxygen species ("ROS") which kill microorganisms present in the surroundings (Step III). As the cell structure of the microorganisms is destroyed during the killing process, the cell debris is at least in part removed from the active layer 2 (Step IV).