Biomimetic antimicrobial polymer films and their biomedical and food-packaging applications

In this project, we utilize an innovative approach combining antibacterial nanostructures with high-resolution strain mapping sensor arrays to address orthopedic complications, such as periprosthetic infections and mechanical failures of implants. Initially, our research focuses on employing nanosphere lithography to create antibacterial surfaces. This method allows for precise control over the physical parameters of nanopillar array, facilitating studies that led to a robust understanding of the bactericidal mechanisms involved. Through iterative testing, we enhanced the antibacterial efficacy of these structures. Subsequently, we adopted the anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template method to scale up nanopillar structure fabrication, demonstrating its potential in food packaging applications. Alongside, we innovated strain sensors for orthopedic implants. By employing transfer printing techniques, we developed ultrathin silicon-based sensors on flexible substrates, creating a comprehensive strain sensing array. This innovation, intended for spine fusion monitoring, also incorporates Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology for wireless, real-time clinical monitoring. In conclusion, this project pioneers significant advancements in both antibacterial structures and strain mapping sensor arrays, offering a new direction for the development of electronic medical applications. These innovations not only address current orthopedic challenges but also lay the groundwork for future technological breakthroughs in medical devices.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Materials Science & Engr

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2024

Author dc:creator

• Zhang, Yi

Contributors dc:contributor

• Cao, Qing
• Lau, Gee
• Wang, Hua
• Leal, Cecilia

• Antimicrobial Materials
• Nanoscale Fabrication
• Biomedical Devices
• Food Packaging Materials

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2024 Yi Zhang

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/124631

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F124631