Photocatalytic graphitic carbon nitride for environmental pathogen control
Visible-light-activated graphitic carbon nitride photocatalyst that continuously generates reactive oxygen species to inactivate bacteria, viruses, and persistent biofilms. Compatible with common cleaning agents such as chelants and surfactants for enhanced antimicrobial performance under low-power indoor lighting.
Overview
This solution leverages graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) as a visible-light-responsive photocatalyst for continuous environmental pathogen control. When activated by abundant indoor visible light, the material generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that inactivate a broad spectrum of harmful microorganisms, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, persistent biofilms, and human adenovirus. The photocatalyst can be formulated as nanoparticles suspended in aqueous solutions, pressed into coupons, or embedded in a chitosan matrix for flexible surface application. It also strengthens the antimicrobial activity of common cleaning product ingredients such as chelants and surfactants, making it a versatile additive for hygiene and disinfection applications.
Technical specifications
- Material: Graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) photocatalyst, available as powder, pressed coupons, nanoparticles, or chitosan-matrix composites
- Light source: Operates under low-power white LED irradiation (as low as 7 W), utilizing readily available indoor visible light
- Mechanism: Visible-light activation of oxygen to continuously produce reactive oxygen species for pathogen inactivation
- Pathogen coverage: Effective against E. coli, human adenovirus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, and Escherichia coli O157:H7
- Biofilm control: Inhibits biofilm development on surfaces and eradicates pre-existing biofilms, including those formed from urine
- Compatibility: Enhances antimicrobial performance when combined with chelants and surfactants commonly found in cleaning formulations
- Future development: Optimization of nanoparticle dispersion, functionalization for aqueous stability, and synthesis tuning to maximize indoor visible-light utilization
Technology readiness level
The photocatalyst has been validated in laboratory studies demonstrating significant inactivation of planktonic bacteria and viruses, as well as successful inhibition and eradication of biofilms under white LED light exposure. Current efforts focus on advancing material development — including nanoparticle formulation and functionalization — and expanding validation with cleaning product co-ingredients. The research team at George Washington University is seeking partnership support for material development, validation studies, and funding for key personnel to advance the technology toward broader application.
About George Washington University
George Washington University is a comprehensive private research university in Washington, DC, known for professional programs and a broad research portfolio. Industry engages through an integrated academic medical system for clinical translation, a Northern Virginia research campus with laboratories, and shared core facilities supporting prototyping and testing. Its location places faculty and partners near federal agencies, standards bodies, and global nonprofits, enabling regulatory‑aware collaboration and fast access to decision makers. Research is backed by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DoD, and DOE. A dedicated technology transfer office streamlines IP, licensing, and startup formation, with corporate partnership models that simplify sponsored research.
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