2D biocidal materials supported on iron oxide sorbents for air filtration
Multifunctional nanocomposite materials that combine iron oxide sorbents on nanoclay supports with 2D transition metal dichalcogenide biocides. Designed to impregnate HEPA filter membranes for simultaneous odour reduction and antimicrobial action in air filtration applications.
Overview
This solution addresses the growing demand for advanced air filtration media that can simultaneously capture volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and inactivate airborne pathogens. The technology combines iron oxide sorbents supported on nanoclay with two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) biocides to create bifunctional filter membranes. By integrating dual deodorising and antimicrobial capabilities into a single material platform, the offering targets improved indoor air quality for healthcare, commercial, and industrial environments where both chemical and biological contaminants are concerns.
Technical specifications
Material composition:
- Nanoclay-supported iron oxide (Fe2O3) sorbents provide low-cost, naturally abundant support layers for VOC and odour capture
- Ternary TMD nanocomposites such as Cu2MoS4 and Ag2MoS4 deliver biocidal action through metal ion release and photothermal properties
- Nanomaterials are prepared via electrodeposition, hydrothermal synthesis, and liquid-phase exfoliation using green solvents for sustainable processing
Functional capabilities:
- Dual-action performance combining adsorption of odorous compounds with bacterial elimination
- Compatibility with standard HEPA filter membrane formats through impregnation
- Safe, low-cost reagents prioritised throughout the synthesis process to support scalable manufacturing
Research team expertise:
- Proven track record in nanomaterial synthesis, pathogen capture and detection, and chemical sensing
- Prior industry projects in bacterial enzyme profiling, smart filtration systems, and biomass-derived adsorbents for remediation
- Experience preparing metal oxide, silver, gold, and platinum nanoparticle composites for diverse applications
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently at an early-to-mid development stage. Existing capabilities in nanomaterial synthesis and characterisation provide a strong foundation. The planned four-task validation programme covers synthesis and characterisation of sorbents and biocidal materials, in situ evaluation of impregnated filter media, anti-odour and VOC capture testing, and quantitative assessment of bacterial elimination efficacy. Manufacturability and production cost considerations will be integrated throughout development, positioning the technology toward future scale-up and commercial deployment.
About National University of Ireland, Maynooth
National University of Ireland, Maynooth (Maynooth University) is a comprehensive public research university on Dublin’s western edge, serving a growing student body and fostering an agile, collaborative research culture. Its County Kildare location places faculty and students near major multinational R&D and manufacturing sites, enabling quick engagement and on-site collaboration. Companies connect through on-campus research facilities, an innovation and incubation hub, contract research, and structured student placements that build talent pipelines. Research is supported by Science Foundation Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, the Irish Research Council, and competitive European funding. A dedicated commercialization office manages IP, licensing, and startup formation with industry-friendly agreements.
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