LaamScience, Research Triangle Park, a company founded on a discovery by scientists at the NC State College of Textiles and Emory University, has raised more than $2 million from angel investors as the company moves closer to its first product release.
The money will be used for continued research, operations and marketing efforts.
LaamScience is focused on the commercialization of a durable surface treatment that, when subjected to ordinary light, kills or inactivates virtually all viruses and most bacteria. Importantly, the technology does not require customized formulations for individual viruses.
President and CEO Tom Roberg said the first products will be improved versions of the current "N-95" face mask and surgical masks.
The problem with current masks, is that when they are taken off, the infectious agents remain on the surfaces of the mask may well infect the wearer. The LaamScience coating largely eliminates that problem.
Additional applications and markets for this technology include reducing hospital acquired infections via treated gowns, divider curtains and pillowcases, among others. Potentially important also is the ability to protect farm animals from deadly viral and bacterial infection.
The products are expected to provide protection against flu, cold and RSV viruses and pandemic threats such as the avian flu and SARS.