Dr. Krasimir Vasilev

Abstract:

In this keynote talk, I will give an overview of recent progress from my lab on development of nanoengineered surfaces and materials that benefit many areas of application. Over the years, we developed a range plasma based methods, know-how and expertise which allow us to control that entire spectrum of materials surface properties, including chemical, physical, mechanical and topographical. The main focus of our research is on the surface modification of medical devices and biomaterials with the purpose to improve healthcare outcomes in areas such as prevention of infection, modulation of inflammation, cell therapies, tissue engineering, and medical diagnostics. I will discuss our newest discoveries and technologies, some of which have been translated onto commercial devices in collaboration with industry. However, our surface modification technologies are not limited to healthcare and medicine. We have demonstrated the utility of nanoengineered plasma polymers for solving problems in other areas such as environmental science and remediation, heath sustainability, water treatment and even wine making. In will present the engineering and chemical concepts underpinning “nanoengineering of plasma polymers” and give a range of examples of application of our technologies in various fields.