Project Info
Self-Healing Nanoarchitectured Metal Surfaces
Terry Lowe
lowe@mines.edu
Project Goals and Description:
We have invented at Mines a new mechanism to nearly instantly neutralize pathogenic viruses and bacteria. The method depends upon creating nanoscale features on the surfaces of particles, wires, or sheets of copper, zinc, and other metals. The technology has the potential to reduce the risks of infection from air, water, and surfaces everywhere. The project goal is to determine the extent to which the surfaces can heal themselves if damaged.
More Information:
Grand Challenge: Provide access to clean water.
Primary Contacts:
Terry Lowe, lowe@mines.edu
Student Preparation
Qualifications
The ideal student has a background in materials science, chemistry, metallurgical engineering and related fields.
TIME COMMITMENT (HRS/WK)
8 hours
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES GAINED
The student will gain experience in laboratory material synthesis and characterization using various forms of microscopy.
MENTORING PLAN
The student would become a member of Dr. Lowe's Transdisciplinary Nanostructured Materials Research Team (TNMRT). TNMRT has a formal mentoring program based upon methods evolved from UC Davis and the University of Michigan. The team includes undergrads, graduates, and full-time staff who participate in mentoring.
PREFERRED STUDENT STATUS
Sophomore
Junior
Senior