Amir Kazemi
R&D Manager
TriMiS Inc.
Amir holds a Ph.D. degree in Chemical Engineering from McMaster University. He has multiple years of experience in research and development. As one of the R&D managers, Amir is currently involved in a collaboration between TriMiS Inc and McMaster University on development of antimicrobial coatings.
Slow-Release and Non-Release Antimicrobial Coatings with Enhanced Protection
Coatings are employed to protect materials and surfaces from deterioration. However, repeated surface darkening, mainly caused by microbial colonization, can lead to increased re-coating costs. Ingredients present in the formulations are typically good sources of nutrients for the growth of different microorganisms. The extent of colonization by different organisms varies according to the support substrate and the environmental conditions. There is considerable interest in the development of antimicrobial coatings to prevent the growth of these microorganisms. Conventionally, additives are added to the paints to prevent the growth of microorganisms on the surface. An ongoing challenge is the release of the antimicrobial agents from the coating surface, which results in health and environmental concerns as well as shorter periods of antimicrobial protection. We have recently developed a platform for non-release and slow-release coatings with applications in different sectors including construction, roofing, agri-food, and healthcare. For example, our slow-release antimold coating has shown promising resistance against different fungal species such as Aureobasidium pullulans, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Penicillium funiculosum before and after being exposed to an accelerated weathering test. Furthermore, our non-release antiviral coating was successfully tested against the HCoV-229E and showed 3-log reduction after two hours of exposure.