Open Call for Science and Technology Created by Early-Stage (e.g. University) Teams

The use of antibacterial 3D printed filament has promising potential applications for the development of medical devices designed to prevent bacterial adhesion and growth on postoperative prostheses, wound dressings, invasive implants, medical fittings and tubing, surgical equipment, etc. Our technology can produce biocompatible products tailored for almost any use in the body or applied as permanently implantable or bioabsorbable devices. It can provide custom formulations that are cost effective and contain an increased antibiotic loading capacity as compared to conventional compositions. It provides increased control over release kinetics of loaded drugs (10-100 hrs. plus). All medical facilities can use this technology in the treatment of chronic wounds, against intra-hospital infections, and various microbial infections thus aiding in the control, prevention and spread of infectious disease for all military personnel, their families and the public. Furthermore, the same polymer/mHNT composites can also be used to generate nano- and microfibers using electrospinning and using the blow spinning spray technique to produce antimicrobial mHNTs coatings, laminates, stent coatings, textiles, and other medical device applications. These products will be stronger, safer, and more durable and significantly improve clinical outcomes and raise the level patient care.