Developing next generation polymer and composite filaments and nanofibres
Snapshot of Our Projects
Bio-derived PET
- Starting from the synthesis of monomers from plant sources, PET is then synthesized from these bioderived monomers. Demonstration of scalable bioderived PET route
Thermochromic Fibres
- Thermochromic fibres with controllable temperature switch ranges made using a combination of overcoating and co-extrusion; Use in applications from infection detection on wounds to sensing
Peripheral Nerve Repair
- Development of degradable biocompatible polymeric tubes extruded as micro and nanofibers. Used in surgery, these guide nerve propagation allow peripheral nerves to regrow across 10 mm gaps
Facemask testing during COVID-19
- Australia’s first comprehensive NATA accredited testing facilities; Supported the development of the facilities for sovereign capability in medical facemask fabrication; Tested imported facemasks during COVID pandemic to ensure they are meeting Australian standard
Wearable Chemical Sensors
- Integrated into textiles, or worn on the skin, these portable electrochemical sensors can be used for the selective detection of chemicals, including pesticides, with low detection limits. Interface to electronic devices is achieved wirelessly
Nano-fibres for metal removal from wastewater
- Novel nano-fibres for the extraction of metal species from storm water, where nano-fibre filter could be regenerated and reused many times and able to perform in real world conditions
Protection from Aerosols: Electrostatic Air Filters
- Unique wool/polymer blend for high efficiency air filtration; The electrostatic charge can be regenerated by simple washing and tumble drying; Sustainable local solution with reusable filtration capability
Unique In-House Facilities
Nano-fibre Production
Melt Extrusion and Compounding
Air Filtration and Analysis
Lab and pilot scale electrospinning of polymers and composites, with aqueous and organic solvent capability; Drum and Continuous production.
Small and medium pilot scale single and twin screw systems, bi and tri component extrusion fibre lines, shaped fibre and filaments
Cannisters, mask and device performance testing, including pressure drop and particle detection over various ranges:
•Particle Ø: 0.01 – 10 µm
•Concentration: 0.01 – 100 mg/m3
•Flow rate: 15 – 250 or 700 – 3000 L/min
Hazardous Aerosol Test Rig
Single use Medical Mask Testing
Filtration test rig for textile and canister filters:
•Full face mask test rig with manikin head
•Generated particulates and aerosols
•Toxic industrial gases
Testing towards standards:
•Breathing Resistance EN14683-2014
•Blood Penetration ISO 22609 and ASTM F1862-F1862M-17
•Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE)% ASTM F2101-14, EN 14683-2014 and IS EN 14683
News
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Team
Mr Nick Ebdon
Dr Yen Truong
Ms Jacinta Poole
Mr Heng Taing