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Antifungal Coating for Mold-Prone Surfaces Such As Bathroom Walls, Shingles and Pavers

IP Title

Functionalized Fullerenes as Antifungal Agents

Detailed Technology Description

None

Application Date

Sep 22, 2011

Application No.

9,314,027

Others

*Abstract

The University of Florida is seeking companies interested in commercializing an antifungal solution made from chemically altered hollow carbon molecules called "functionalized fullerenes." The solution, when applied as a coating, prevents fungal growth on bathroom walls, shower enclosures, roof shingles, gutters, paver stones and other materials. Fungi, including molds and mildews, can damage the surfaces of indoor and outdoor structures. Many fungi also produce allergens or toxins that harm humans, animals and plants. For example, breathing in mold spores can cause respiratory problems and trigger asthma attacks. Some fungi are highly resistant to existing antimicrobial products. The global market for antifungal agents was valued at more than $10 billion in 2011 and is expected to reach $12.2 billion by 2016. Researchers at the University of Florida have developed an antifungal solution containing functionalized fullerenes that inhibits the growth of mold, mildew and other fungal cells for a cleaner, healthier living environment.

Application

Effective, nontoxic antifungal solution that can be added to paints and applied as a coating to a wide variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces

Advantages

• Easily applied as a coating, protecting surfaces from the damaging effects of fungi
• May be used in a wide range of industries, increasing market opportunities
• Nontoxic and biocompatible, making it safe to use around people and pets
• Provides an alternative to traditional fungicides, limiting the emergence and spread of drug-resistant fungal strains

Technology

Eradicating fungi from residential and commercial buildings is often difficult. University of Florida researchers have developed a formulation containing functionalized fullerenes that can be applied as a coating to tiles, shingles, stucco, and the interior or exterior surfaces of buildings to prevent the growth of fungi, including common molds and mildews. This technology may be particularly useful in hospitals, where it could protect individuals whose immune systems are compromised. The need for new antifungal agents is further exacerbated by the emergence of pathogens and antibiotic-resistant fungi.

*IP Issue Date

Apr 19, 2016

*IP Publication Date

Jan 19, 2012

*Principal Investigator

Name: Brij Moudgil

Department:

Name: Ben Koopman

Department:

Name: Vijay Krishna

Department:

Country/Region

USA