Ir. Prof. Wallace Leung Woon-Fong, Chair Professor of Innovative Products and Technologies of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, introduced a PolyU-developed electrostatically charged nanofiber filter with multiple separator layers. The novel PVDF nanofiber filter can capture pollutant particles that are below 100 nm in diameter. It demonstrates much better performance in breathability and filtration efficiency, compared with existing technologies and products, and has a longer shelf life up to 90 days.

Prof. Leung said the filter or face mask applying the innovation would be an ideal defense against virus, such as measles and SARS, during an outbreak. The novel technology also has great potential for applying in the analytical technique of Western Blot, and in effective release of protein-based drugs.

Avalon Nano-Biotech (HK) Limited has provided a donation to the ME department of 3 million Hong Kong dollars to support Prof. Wallace Leung in further developing and commercializing advanced air filtration nanofiber technologies to capture airborne pollutants and viruses (e.g., COVID-19 virus). Alongside with new technology development, Prof. Leung together with Avalon has transferred a nanofiber technology, which has been licensed earlier to Avalon, for the immediate need of developing a highly protective facemask for professionals working in railroad environment. This is especially vital during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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