CLSU-DOST III initiative and collaborative response to COVID-19 mitigation
Abstract
COVID-19 posted a big challenge to all of us. Nanotechnology, a field with many applications, could be tapped to address pressing concerns of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a response to the COVID-19 situation, Central Luzon State University (CLSU) synthesized and mass produced nano-structured alcohol, nanofiber filler mask and hand sanitizer for health facilities and frontliners in Region 3. Previous researchers had to come up with new, innovative, and novel products to combat the effect of COVID-19. This is one of the immediate responses of the university to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in collaboration with DOST-III knowing that both CLSU and DOST-III are to lend a hand in the government's effort through the BAYANIHAN, We Heal as One Act to fight the dreadful effect of COVID-19. At the CLSU Nanotechnology R&D Facility, nanofibers are made as fillers for face masks. These masks are essential items for the primary protection of the respiratory tract against COVID-19 due to its anti-viral and photocatalytic degradation property. Up to the present, the project distributed 9,154 L of nano-structured alcohol, 350 nanofiber-filler masks, and 4,442 washable face masks. With this current crisis seemingly being in the midst yet for an unexpected period, CLSU through Nanotechnology R&D will continue to share a portion of its resources to fulfill its mission in contributing and creating impact to the society and the people it serves.