Grantee Research Project Results

Final Report: Encapsulation of Biological Contaminants in Transportation Systems

EPA Contract Number: EPD17013
Title: Encapsulation of Biological Contaminants in Transportation Systems
Investigators: Beltis, Kevin J
Small Business: TIAX, L.L.C.
EPA Contact: Richards, April
Phase: I
Project Period: November 1, 2016 through April 30, 2017
Project Amount: $99,857
RFA: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - Phase I (2016) RFA Text |  Recipients Lists
Research Category: SBIR - Homeland Security , Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)

Description:

This Phase I, Encapsulation of Biological Contaminants in Transportation Systems effort was designed to evaluate the potential efficacy of application of a liquid film-forming coating with release capabilities as a strippable film. Further upon the film’s cure, it can be demonstrated to encapsulate a particulate biohazard and allow subsequent removal and hence decontamination of the surface. To demonstrate the concept, TIAX used a commercially available coating to remove: 1) a biological liquid-suspension deposition (i.e., Bacillus atrophaeus) and 2) an analytically-determinable powder as a simulant for respirable hazard on test coupons made of representative materials of construction for subway cars.

Summary/Accomplishments (Outputs/Outcomes):

Through this Phase I effort, we have noted the following:

• Successfully demonstrated 97% removal of an aerosolizable powdered agent simulant
• Successfully demonstrated up to 98 % removal of a liquid applied biological agent (Bacillus atrophaeus)
• The technique will not require significant outside logistical support (electrical support, external water supply)
• Manpower may be kept to a minimum of one or two technicians for coating application and subsequent removal

Conclusions:

The data developed by this SBIR Phase I effort validates the potential efficacy for removal of a particulate/powder hazard from surfaces consistent with those found in railway and subway cars.

Additional research is warranted to:

1. demonstrate that inclusion of an active biocide into the film-forming coating will provide kill of biohazards for which it provides extended contact (i.e., the period required for cure and removal) or which it encapsulates for eventual removal.
2. Demonstrate the decontamination system’s utility in actual railcar and/or subway systems to ensure efficacy in actual systems of interest.
3. Evaluate under various climatic environmental conditions and, as necessary, evaluate alternative coating formulations that will have efficacy over a broad range of conditions.

Commercialization:

TIAX is evaluating the market potential of the technology evaluated under this Phase I SBIR effort and seeking additional resources to allow further development and evaluation outside of the laboratory. In general, we see a good potential market for the subject technology. The mitigation of biohazards in mass transit is one application that has a stated need.

SBIR Phase II:

Encapsulation of Biological Contaminants in Transportation Systems  | Final Report