Graphene Derivative and Methods for Manufacturing the Same

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This patent discloses a new type of graphene derivative, where the graphene layer(s) are chemically functionalized with a covalently attached polyglycerol compound that also contains covalently bound sulfate groups (or similar negatively charged groups). The resulting material is tuned for strong multivalent binding to viruses, serving as a potential antiviral agent or virus filter. Methods for synthesizing this functionalized graphene are also described.

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

• As an antiviral drug to inhibit or neutralize viruses (e.g., orthopoxviruses, herpes viruses) in medical treatments.
• For binding and removing viruses from liquids or solutions (such as water treatment or blood filtration).
• As a super-absorber or filter element in protective masks and PPE to trap and inactivate airborne viruses.
• As a surface coating or filter in diagnostic tools for detecting viruses in samples.
• For decontaminating wastewater or medical fluids from viral contamination.
• In medical device applications where viral filtration or neutralization is needed.
• In topical formulations (gels or creams) for treatment of viral skin infections.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Highly effective at binding and inhibiting a broad range of viruses due to multivalent and tunable surface functionalization.
• Reduces risk of viral drug resistance, as the mechanism is physical binding/shielding rather than traditional chemical inhibition.
• Demonstrates low cytotoxicity and lacks the major side effects of conventional treatments such as heparin (e.g., does not cause significant anticoagulant effects).
• Material is dispersible in water and can be processed into various forms (filters, coatings, nanoparticles, gels, etc.).
• Can be thermally activated (for example by infrared light) to ensure viral inactivation, enabling rapid and efficient disinfection.
• The functional groups and degree of functionalization/sulfation can be tuned for different viral targets or application needs.
• Applicable for both in vitro (laboratory/diagnostic) and in vivo (therapeutic/clinical) scenarios.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a graphene derivative, comprising at least one graphene layer. It is characterized in that the graphene layer is functionalized with a covalently bound polyglycerol compound comprising a polyglycerol backbone and at least one substituent in the nature of a covalently bound sulfate group. The invention further relates to uses of the graphene derivative and manufacturing processes for the graphene derivative.