12/01/2021
By Susan Pryputniewicz

The Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology program invites you to attend a doctoral proposal defense by Dhanya Venkataraman on “Development of nanofibers for filtration media as a chemical and biological shield to prevent viruses.”

Name: Dhanya Venkataraman
Date: Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2021
Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Room 445, ETIC, North Campus
This will be a hybrid defense and can also join virtually via Zoom. Those interested in attending should contact the student (dhanya_venkataraman@student.uml.edu) and committee advisor (jay_park@uml.edu) at least 24 hours prior to the defense to request access to the meeting.

Committee Chair (Advisor): Jay Hoon Park, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Committee Members:

  • Ramaswamy Nagarajan, Ph.D., Professor, Co-Director of HEROES, Department of Plastics Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • Jinxiang Xi, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Abstract:
This dissertation research project investigates on fabricating filters as chemical and biological shields to prevent viruses. Due to the pandemic, the need for masks is on the rise with improved filtration efficiency and better reusability with the demand across the globe. Centrifugal spun and melt-electrospun fibers were evaluated as filters for masks focusing on improved production rate, enhanced filtration and economical. Owing to the random arrangement in the spun fibers’ boosts breathability, higher surface area, better porosity with a smaller pressure drop and a finer fiber diameter improving the filtration efficiency of masks. Spun fibers have been explored for diverse applications; surface modifications and integrating compounds to these fibers offer enhanced protection of fabrics, useful in warfare for soldiers as protective jackets. Electrospun butyl rubber mats with reinforced chemical agents were tested for anti-bacterial efficiency, analyzed the surface morphology, conducted tensile testing, and performed filtration efficiency along with air permeation testing.

All interested students and faculty members are invited to attend the defense.