—Journal of Materials Chemistry B Cover Article

A research team led by Yonsei Mechanical Engineering Professor Jungho Hwang and Professor Woo Kyoung-ja from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) have developed monodisperse silver nanoparticle-decorated silica hybrid particles that exhibit strong antimicrobial activity upon contact. Because of their capacity to eliminate harmful, pathogenic bacteria, the hybrid particles are expected to have a number of future green environment applications. In particular, air filtration systems could be coated with the particles to prevent harmful bacteria from entering the environment.  According to Professor Hwang, the silver nanoparticles showed great efficacy under a scanning electron microscope in eliminating E. coli and S. epidermidis upon contact.  As he explained it, the particles function like teeth and bite away at the bacteria.  

On October 21, the results appeared as the cover article in Journal of Materials Chemistry B with the title “Prompt and synergistic antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticle-decorated silica hybrid particles on air filtration.” Professor Hwang stated that the team’s research constitutes a crucial advance in terms of understanding the antibacterial qualities of silver nano hybrid particles. It can be expected, he added, that in the future these particles will be used commercially in air purifiers and air conditioners.