Polymer in SITU catalysts for decreasing aging time of cerium oxide nanoparticles

Abstract

A method for manufacturing silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3), including an aqueous polymer solution for ageing un-aged cerium oxide nanoparticles in a solution with silver nitrate and uses an accelerant. The accelerant speeds up peroxy ligand conversion of cerium oxide nanoparticles having a predominant 3+ oxidation state and accelerates evolution of all, to 1ppm or less of the limit of detection, ionized Ag to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles as a non-ionized stable metallic silver phase to form the AgCNP3. The accelerant can be low heat of 90°-115°F applied to the solution only after crash-out of the solution that is without an ingredient that incudes wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide; wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide mixed in the solution prior to aging; low heat of 90°-115°F applied to heat the solution that incudes wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide; and a form factor (FF) ratio of a vessel of the closed system where the ageing takes place.

Description

POLYMER IN SITU CATALYSTS FOR DECREASING AGING TIME OF CERIUM OXIDE NANOPARTICLESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 670,236 filed July 12, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference.

[0002] This application also claims priority to International ApplicationNo. PCT / US23 / 30945 filed August 23, 2023, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 468,825 filed May 25, 2023, the entirety of which are incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND

[0003] Embodiments relate to large-scale manufacturing processes for silver-mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles.

[0004] The process for manufacturing metal-mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles requires an ageing process to produce bio-active particles. Some processes of ageing metal- mediated cerium oxide include placing a solution with the un-aged cerium oxide nanoparticles in a container and observing a color change in the solution. For example, the solution of the unaged cerium oxide nanoparticles that is to be aged may have a yellow tint. At the end of an ageing process, the solution becomes clear. An ageing process can use ionized silver during the ageing time to evolve into a metallic silver phase on the ceria surface. However, the ageing process can be very slow and costly.

[0005] A prior invention disclosed a novel synthesis to produce a specialized form of Janus-type metal mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles with predominantly Ce3+and super oxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme like behavior. As a consequence, the solution with some ionized silver is washed to remove the ionized silver. However, the dialysis and washing process adds costs and increases synthesis time. However, this prior art process requires a long time to age. Thus, the initial synthesis required a long aging time (3-4 months for 50mL) that increased in aging time with increasing synthesis volume. Additionally, a lot of water (8L for 50 mL of synthesized solution) was also required, driving up cost and waste.

[0006] In another co-pending patent application (unpublished at the time of filing this application), though less costly, the aging time is independent of volume or form factor, but the ageing time still took at least several days.

[0007] Having a process that can decrease the aging time to form nanoparticles to under 24 hours is desired.SUMMARY

[0001] Embodiments relate to large-scale manufacturing processes for silver- mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles to accelerate the aging process with the use of a polymer.

[0002] An aspect includes a method for manufacturing silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3 as disclosed herein) utilizing a polymer dissolved in water to accelerate the aging process. The method includes ageing in a closed system un-aged cerium oxide nanoparticles in a solution that includes silver nitrate and placed within a polymer solution. The polymer speeds up peroxy ligand conversion to cerium oxide having a predominant 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component and accelerates evolution of all, to Ippm or less of the limit of detection, ionized Ag to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles with a stable, non-ionized metallic silver phase to form the AgCNP3.

[0003] An aspect includes a formulation comprising an aqueous solution including silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size, wherein the aqueous solution including the AgCNP3 produced with a method that includes placing cerium nitrate hexahydrate (Ce(NO3)3.6H2O) and silver nitrate (AgNCh) to a water and polymer solution, at low heat to accelerate peroxy ligand conversion to form AgCNP3.

[0004] An aspect includes a therapeutic article of manufacture comprising a body having fibers treated with the formulation that includes a first composition comprising one or more of a polymeric binder, a dispersant, and a stabilizer and an aqueous solution that includes AgCNP3. AgCNP3 is produced with a method that includes placing cerium nitrate hexahydrate (Ce(NO3)3.6H2O) and silver nitrate (AgNCh) to a water and polymer solution, at low heat that speeds up peroxy ligand conversion of AgCNP3.

[0005] Another aspect includes a touch screen display comprising a touch screen layer stack having a plurality of layers that includes a top surface layer; and the formulation coating the top surface layer. The formulation comprising AgCNP3 having a predominantly 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component and in a range of about 3-30 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of about 1 weight percentage of a mixture having a binder and the AgCNP3 wherein the AgCNP3 is produced using a method that includes placing cerium nitrate hexahydrate (Ce(NO3)3.6H2O) and silver nitrate (AgNCh) to a water and polymer solution, at low heat that speeds up peroxy ligand conversion to form AgCNP3.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.

[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart of a process for making AgCNP3 in accordance with one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates the effect of high molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.8 wt% on the aging process of AgCNP3 in a 23 hour period.

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates the effect of high molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.4 wt% on the aging process of AgCNP3 in a 23 hour period.

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates the effect of low molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.4 wt% on the aging process of AgCNP3 in a 23 hour period.

[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates the effect of low molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.8 wt% on the aging process of AgCNP3 in a 23 hour period.

[0014] FIG. 6A illustrates a vessel in accordance with one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6B illustrates a first vessel filled with synthesizing solution and precipitates in accordance with one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 6C illustrates a second vessel filled with synthesizing solution and particulates in accordance with one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 7 illustrates a system for the peroxy ligand conversion to silver-mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8A illustrates a first closed system in accordance with one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 8B illustrates a second closed system in accordance with one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 9A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a touch screen in accordance with one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 9B illustrates an aspect of the subject matter in accordance with one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart of a method for forming a touch screen display in accordance with one embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 11 illustrates a wound care article according to an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 12 illustrates a wound care article according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 13 illustrates a wound care article according to an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 14 illustrates a wound healing article according to an embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 15 illustrates a wound healing article according to an embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 16 illustrates a wound healing article having a body with a three-ply structure according to an embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 17 illustrates a wound healing article having a body with a two-ply structure according to an embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a wound healing article with a face mask form factor according to an embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 19 illustrates a surface of an article coated with a coating composition in accordance with one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 20A illustrates a toilet seat coated with a coating composition in accordance with one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 20B illustrates a door with a door handle coated with a coating composition in accordance with one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 21 A illustrates furniture coated with a coating composition in accordance with one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 21B illustrates fabric coated with a coating composition in accordance with one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 21C illustrates an interior wall of a building coated with a coating composition and having a door and a window in accordance with one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 22 illustrates a flowchart of a process for coating a surface in accordance with one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 23A illustrates a subject tooth 2800 in a clean state.

[0039] FIG. 23B illustrates a subject tooth of FIG. 23A with a coating of dental resin composite including AgCNP3 coated on the tooth in accordance with one embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 24 illustrates a coated subject tooth of FIG. 23B in the mouth with bacteria.

[0041] FIG. 25 illustrates a coated subject tooth of FIG. 24 releasing directed hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to degrade or destroy caries-causing bacteria in accordance with one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 26 illustrates the coated subject tooth of FIG. 25 with the bacteria degraded or destroyed.

[0043] FIG. 27 illustrates the effect of low molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.4 wt% on the aging process of CNP.

[0044] FIG. 28 illustrates the effect of high molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.4 wt% on the aging process of CNP.

[0045] FIG. 29 shows the aging of CNP over time with no polymer in the aqueous solution utilized.

[0046] FIG. 30 shows the aging of CNP with a water and PVP solution.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Embodiments disclosed herein provide for an improved process for large scale synthesis of plain and metal mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles is presented. Major changes to prior art processes include use of a polymer in situ during synthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles. Inclusion of the polymer reduces the aging time to less than 24 hours when compared to one of the prior art solutions that provided an aging time of about a week. Thus, embodiments disclosed herein drastically decrease the aging time and cost for creation of Janus- type metal mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles or plain cerium oxide nanoparticles with predominantly Ce3+and super oxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme like behavior.

[0048] The inventors have surprisingly determined that silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP) with predominantly Ce3+, as described herein, can be manufactured using a process including a polymer solution that speeds up the peroxy ligand conversion tonanoparticles. The accelerant aids in evolving metal, such that metal (i.e., silver) precipitates evolve to a non-ionized metallic phase on the cerium oxide nanoparticles.

[0049] The inventors have surprisingly determined that silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3), as described herein, can be manufactured using a process including a polymer solution that speeds up the peroxy ligand conversion to nanoparticles. At least one accelerant evolves silver, such as silver precipitates to a non-ionized silver metallic phase more rapidly than currently possible.

[0050] The inventors have surprisingly determined that silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3), as described herein, can be manufactured using a process including a polymer solution that speeds up the peroxy ligand conversion to nanoparticles by effectuating quicker access to water or other processing aqueous solution, for example.

[0051] The inventors have surprisingly determined that AgCNP3, as described herein, can be manufactured using a process including a polymer solution that speeds up the peroxy ligand conversion to nanoparticles by using low heat and specifically below the boiling point of water or other processing aqueous solution, for example.

[0052] The inventors have surprisingly determined that AgCNP3, as described herein, can be manufactured using a process including a polymer solution that speeds up the peroxy ligand conversion to nanoparticles by using a vessel form factor with or without heat, the form factor that limits stacking and / or crowding of the crashed-out particulates to maximize the particulates’ surface being in direct contact with the water or other processing aqueous solution.

[0053] The inventors have surprisingly determined that AgCNP3, as described herein, can be manufactured using a process in a closed system including a polymer solution that produces AgCNP3 nanoparticles with only non-ionizing silver in a single vessel without the need for removal from or repackaging of the final product of a colloidal solution of AgCNP3 nanoparticles from the closed system, wherein the colloidal solution of AgCNP3 nanoparticles from the process has essentially all ionized silver consolidated into metallic silver and no longer present in solution.

[0054] The inventors have surprisingly determined that AgCNP3, as described herein, can be manufactured using a process including a polymer solution that produces AgCNP3 nanoparticles with only non-ionizing silver. Aging is performed at low heat of 90-115 °F (or32.2-46°C) to speed up the ageing process wherein the ageing process is completed when all ionized silver has been consolidated into metallic silver and no longer present in solution.

[0055] The inventors have surprisingly determined that silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3), as described herein, can be manufactured using low heat of 90-115 °F (or 32.2-46°C) over the aging period to speed up the ageing process by a factor of more than 84x for a 50ml solution.

[0056] The inventors have surprisingly determined that AgCNP3, as described herein, can be manufactured using the process to rapidly evolve silver precipitates to a non-ionized metallic silver phase using very low heat and a polymer solution.

[0057] The inventors have surprisingly determined that AgCNP3, as described herein, can be manufactured using the process to rapidly evolve silver precipitates on cerium oxide nanoparticles to eliminate ionized silver for a solution forming the AgCNP3 without the need to wash the residual particles.

[0058] The inventors have surprisingly determined that AgCNP3 can be manufactured using a shortened process that does not require washing of residual particles and silver can rapidly evolve on to cerium oxide nanoparticles to eliminate the presence of ionized silver in a shorter time period. The ability to shorten the manufacturing time to colloidal stability of the solution reduces the storage facility and climate control necessary to store the colloidal solution.

[0059] The inventors have surprisingly determined that the aging time for the creation of at least one Janus-type metal mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles and plain cerium oxide nanoparticles with predominantly Ce3+and super oxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme like behavior can be reduced to under 24 hours with the use of polymer in situ during the synthesis process.

[0060] The embodiments disclosed herein provide for faster ageing of AgCNP and mCNP than described in International Application No. PCT / US23 / 30945 titled “LARGE SCALED MANUFACTURING PROCESSES FOR SILVER-MEDIATED CERIUM OXIDE NANOPARTICLES,” filed August 23, 2023, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 468,825 filed May 25, 2024, the entirety of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0061] An initial (original) synthesis to produce a specialized form of Janus-type metal (i.e., silver) mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles with predominantly Ce3+and super oxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme like behavior is described in WO2021222779A1, titled “Dispensablenanoparticle based composition for disinfection” which is incorporated herein by reference and ACS NANO, by Craig J. Neal, et al., titled “schemMetal-Mediated Nanoscale Cerium Oxide Inactivates Human Coronavirus and Rhinovirus by Surface Disruption,” copyright 2021 by American Chemical Society, and published August 26, 2021.

[0062] The original synthesis cost approximately $1,080,140 to manufacture AgCNP with IX concentration with a manufacturing time of 9-12 months. The original synthesis with 4x concentration cost approximately $4,320,411 and took over one year. A newer synthesis described herein with respect to International Application No. PCT / US 23 / 30945 cost $400 and took 3 weeks to manufacture AgCNP2 at IX concentration. The newer synthesis described herein with respect to International Application No. PCT / US 23 / 30945 cost $1532 and took 5 weeks to manufacture AgCNP2 at 4X concentration. Embodiments of the synthesis taught herein cost approximately $1532 and took less than 24 hours to manufacture AgCNP3 at 4x concentration.

[0063] In the original synthesis the method for forming AgCNP2 includes about 109 mg of cerium nitrate hexahydrate (Ce(NO3)3.6H2O) (99.999% purity) dissolved in about 47.75 mL dH2O in a 50 mL square bottom glass flask. Then, about 250 pL of 0.2 M aq. AgNCh (99% purity) is added to the cerium solution above with the solution vortexed for 2 minutes: Machine: Vortexer. Then, about 2 mL of 3% hydrogen peroxide (stock) is added quickly to the above solution followed by immediate vortexing for 2 minutes at highest rotation speed (in vortexer machine). This solution is stored in dark condition at room temperature with the bottle (50 mL square bottom glass flask) cap loose to allow for release of evolved gases; solutions are left to age in these conditions for up to 3 weeks (monitoring solution color change from yellow to clear) but could be up to 16 weeks as the duration was variable, to create 50 mL total volume of the solution. Particles are then dialyzed against 2 liters of dH2O over 2 days, (dialysis tubing) with the water changed every 12 hours and stored in the same conditions as for ageing. This process only produced approximately 50 mL.

[0064] This new synthesis provides a very cost-effective solution for the manufacture of AgCNP with predominantly Ce3+for use in a variety of products. The AgCNPs discussed herein is described and differentiated as AgCNP3 since it is formulated by a different process than the process disclosed herein for AgCNP2, which is further differentiated from AgCNP 1 which is yet another formulation process.

[0065] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart of a process for making AgCNP3 in accordance with an embodiment disclosed herein. The process, 10 includes adding < / = 0.8 wt% of polymer to water, at step 20. The next step is adding cerium nitrate hexahydrate (Ce(NO3)3.6H2O) and silver nitrate ( AgNOa) to water to create a solution, at 30. The next step involves oxidizing and precipitating via hydrogen peroxide with yellow solution, at step 40. The next step provides for heating the resulting solution. As a non-limiting example, heating may occur by placing the resulting solution in a tote heating jacket. The next step provides for aging the resulting solution, at step 50. Aging is done or complete when precipitate is gone and synthesis volume is clear, at step 60.

[0066] Non-limiting examples of the polymer include, but are not limited to, Chitosan or poyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Thus, it is evident that both a bio-polymer and / or a synthetic polymer may be used. Typically, polymers are added in the synthesis of cerium oxide nanoparticles to control the particle size or morphology (particle shape). Additionally, many syntheses in prior art literature use polymer amounts between 2.5-20 weight%. The inventors have determined that the polymers behave as a catalyst that speeds the aging process of cerium oxide at low temperatures (<50C) and in a range of 0.1-0.8 weight%.

[0067] The process or method 10 disclosed above is provided in further, non-limiting detail. Though, in general, AgCNP may also be used herein. First, 0.4 to 0.8wt % of either high molecular weight or low molecular weight Chitosan or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) may be added to deionized water then about 109 mg of cerium nitrate hexahydrate (99.999% purity) is dissolved in about 47.75 mL dFFO in a container, such as, but not limited to, a 50 mL square glass bottom container. Then, about 250 qL of 0.2 M aq. AgNCL (99% purity) is added to the cerium / polymer solution above with the solution vortexed for about 2 minutes: Machine: Vortexer. Then, about 2 mL of 3% hydrogen peroxide (stock) is added quickly to the above solution followed by immediate vortexing for 2 minutes at 3000 rpm (in vortexer machine). This solution may be stored in dark condition at a temperature greater than 20 °C with the bottle or container (such as, but not limited to, 50 mL square bottom glass flask) cap loose to allow for release of evolved gases. Solutions may be left to age in these conditions for up to 24 hours (monitoring solution color change from a dark yellow or orange to clear or the original base color) to create 50 mL total volume of the solution. The aging process is less than 24 hours.

[0068] The formulations of cerium oxide nanoparticles are produced with surfaces modified by silver nanophases. Materials characterization shows that the silver components in each formulation are unique from each other and decorate the ceria surface as many small nanocrystals (AgCNPl) or as a Janus-type two-phase construct (AgCNP2 & AgCNP3). The average diameter of AgCNPl is about 20 to 24 nm, and the average diameter of AgCNP2 and AgCNP3 crystallites is about 3 to 5 nm. However, the inventor prefers the use of AgCNP3 because of the reduced synthesis time and for the reasons stated below.

[0069] Each synthesis further possesses unique mixed valency with AgCNP2 and AgCNP3 possessing a significantly greater fraction of Ce3+states relative to Ce4+over AgCNPl. The distinct valence characters, along with incorporation of chemically active silver phases, lead to high catalytic activities for each formulation. AgCNP2 and AgCNP3 possesses high superoxide dismutase activity, while AgCNPl possesses both catalase and superoxide dismutase- like enzyme-mimetic activities, ascribed to the catalase activity of ceria and the superoxide dismutase activity from silver phases.

[0070] Further, analysis demonstrates that silver incorporated in each formulation is substantially more stable to redox- mediated degradation than pure silver phases: promoting an increased lifetime in catalytic applications and low probability of ionization of the silver phase.

[0071] Although the amount is not intended to be limiting, when used in methods disclosed herein, some preferred amounts of silver percentages associated with the AgCNPs are about 15% or less.

[0072] FIG. 2 illustrates the effect of high molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.8 wt% on the aging process of AgCNP3 in a 23-hour period. As shown, 0.8 wt% high molecular weight (HMW) of a Chitosan is provided in water to create an aqueous polymer solution. The cerium nitrate hexahydrate and silver nitrate are added to the aqueous polymer solution to form a combined solution. Eow heat is applied to the solution. As shown, as time passes, the combined solution first develops a darker color and as time passes, less than 24 hours, the solution returns to the base color of the 0.8 wt% HMW Chitosan and water solution, signifying that aging is complete. Completion of aging was confirmed by UV-visible spectroscopy, Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) Enzyme Assay and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC).

[0073] FIG. 3 illustrates the effect of high molecular weight (HMW) chitosan at a concentration of 0.4 wt% on the aging process of AgCNP3 in a 23-hour period. The same process or method disclosed above is applied. As demonstrated, the base color returns to the combined solution within 24 hours.

[0074] FIG. 4 illustrates the effect of low molecular weight (LMW) chitosan at a concentration of 0.4 wt% on the aging process of AgCNP3 in a 23hour period. The same process or method disclosed above is applied. As demonstrated, the base color returns to the combined solution within 24 hours.

[0075] FIG. 5 illustrates the effect of low molecular weight (LMW) chitosan at a concentration of 0.8 wt% on the aging process of AgCNP3 in a 23-hour period. The same process or method disclosed above is applied. As demonstrated, the base color returns to the combined solution within 24 hours.

[0076] Unless specifically stated or obvious from context, as used herein, the term "about" is understood as within a range of normal tolerance in the art, for example, within 2 standard deviations of the mean. “About” can be understood as within 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.01% of the stated value. Unless otherwise clear from context, all numerical values provided herein are modified by the term “about.”

[0077] As used herein, the term accelerant causes evolution of all ionized silver (Ag) to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles as a non-ionized metallic silver phase at a quicker rate (less time to age) than a process that does not use the accelerant.

[0078] As used herein, the term “composition” or “composite” as used herein refers to a product that includes ingredients such as one or more of chemical elements, diluent, binder, additive, or constituent in specified amounts, in addition to any product which results, whether directly or indirectly, from a combination of the ingredients in the specified amounts.

[0079] The term “prevention” or “preventing” of a disorder, disease, or condition as used herein refers to, in a statistical sample, a measurable or observable reduction in the occurrence of the disorder, disease or condition in the treated sample set being treated relative to an untreated control sample set, or delays the onset of one or more symptoms of the disorder, disease or condition relative to the untreated control sample set.

[0080] As used herein, the term “subject,” “individual” or “patient” refers to a human, a mammal, or an animal.

[0081] The term “therapeutically effective amount” as used herein refers to an amount of active compound or pharmaceutical agent that elicits the biological or medicinal response in a tissue, system, animal, or human that is being sought by a researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor, or other clinician. A therapeutically effective amount can be given in one or more administrations. The amount of a compound which constitutes a therapeutically effective amount will vary depending on the compound, the disorder and its severity, and the general health, age, sex, body weight and tolerance to drugs of the subject to be treated, but can be determined routinely by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0082] The term “treating” or “treatment” as used herein covers the treatment of a disorder, disease or condition described herein, in a subject, and includes: (i) inhibiting development of a disorder, disease or condition; (ii) slowing progression of the disorder, disease or condition; (iii) inhibiting, relieving, or slowing progression of one or more symptoms of the disorder, disease or condition; and (iv) assisting with a body’s naturally occurring processes to remineralize tooth material to further strengthen teeth against decay and sensitivity.

[0083] The term “silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles,” or “AgCNP3” as used herein refers to cerium oxide nanoparticles with predominantly Ce3+coated with or otherwise bound to an antimicrobial promoting metal such as silver where aging is accelerated with the use of a polymer solution. In an embodiment, the silver-associated cerium oxide nanoparticles with predominantly Ce3+comprise a particle size in the range of 3 nm - 35 nm, with a preferred range from 10 nm - 20 nm.

[0084] The AgCNP3, as described herein, is a NanoRAD ingredient.

[0085] The term “predominant 3+ oxidation state” means that the [Ce3+]:[Ce4+] ratio on the surface of the cerium oxide nanoparticle is greater than 50%.

[0086] The term “predominant 3+ oxidation state” means that the [Ce3+]:[Ce4+] ratio on the surface of the cerium oxide nanoparticle is greater than 50%. In a specific example, the [Ce3+]:[Ce4+] ratio is greater than 60%.

[0087] The term “crash-out” as used herein refers to a process where something precipitates out of solution and collects at the bottom of the solution.

[0088] Silver-mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles have a variety of applications from the treatment of epithelial tissue for wound healing, dental caries, ocular wounds, treatment of surfaces as a disinfectant, preparation of coatings for objects with high touch exposure and more.

[0089] The inventors have determined that the initial (original) synthesis requires a long ageing time that increased in ageing time with increasing synthesis volume. Additionally, the initial synthesis required a water intensive washing step at the end of the ageing period that required a considerable amount of water (8L for 50 mL of synthesized solution) that must then be treated as hazardous waste post synthesis. The new synthesis eliminates washing of the AgCNP to evolve all the silver, such as silver precipitates to a non-ionized metallic phase on the cerium oxide nanoparticles.

[0090] The embodiments described herein provide a new synthesis process that reduces the time and cost to produce these nanoparticles (i.e., AgCNP3) with predominantly Ce3+in bulk. The new synthesis process provides 1) an increase in concentration of reactants per unit volume, and 2) elimination of the end washing step using at least one of a heating step to decrease the ageing time, a vessel form factor for decreasing ageing time, and wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide, 3) significant reduction in the ageing time of the batch under twenty-four (24) hours.

[0091] These improvements of the new synthesis drastically decrease the ageing time and cost for creation of Janus type metal mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles with predominantly +3 Ce and super oxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme mimetic behavior.

[0092] This new synthesis allows for large scale production of a unique Janus-type silver mediated cerium oxide nanoparticle colloidal in a reduced amount of time.

[0093] FIG. 6A illustrates a vessel 100a in accordance with one embodiment. The vessel 100a house a polymer and water solution, as disclosed herein. The aqueous polymer solution aids in evolution of metal, by increasing particulate access to water, such that metal precipitates to a non-ionized metallic phase onto cerium oxide nanoparticles more rapidly, such as by a factor of 6, when compared to a process without a certain form factor. The vessel 100a with a surface area to synthesis volume form factor that increases the area of nanoparticles able to access water (or aqueous solution) to undergo crystallization to a colloid and resuspend into the solution.

[0094] The vessel 100a has an interior surface (IS) height Hl and an interior surface (IS) width W1. If the vessel 100 is round, the IS width W 1 may be an inner diameter (ID). The vessel 100a has an IS height Hl that is smaller than the IS width W 1 such that form factor (FF) ratioWl / Hl > 1. Hl describes the height on the volume of synthesis fluid in the container. For example, for the same vessel type, with a fixed height and diameter, decreasing the total reaction volume to a height in the vessel that achieves a ration of W 1 / H1 > 1.

[0095] By way of non-limiting example, the vessel 100a may have an IS height Hl and IS width W 1 which are equal. However, the height of the volume HV of solution should be less than IS width Wl so that the FF ratio is W 1 / HV > 1.

[0096] By way of non-limiting example, the vessel 100a may have an IS height Hl that is larger than the IS width Wl. However, the height of the volume HV of solution should be less than IS width Wl so that the FF ratio is W 1 / HV > 1. This can be achieved by using about a third of the available height in the vessel, by example, so that the vessel becomes an accelerant.

[0097] In one example, the vessel is selected such that the FF ratio W 1 / HV is in the range of 0.20-0.50.

[0098] FIG. 6B illustrates a first vessel 100b filled with the aqueous polymer solution and combined with a synthesizing solution and precipitates in accordance with one embodiment. FIG. 6C illustrates a second vessel 100c filled with the aqueous polymer solution and combined with the synthesizing solution and precipitates in accordance with one embodiment.

[0099] FIG. 6B illustrates a first vessel 100b with a width / height < 1. The first vessel 100b has an internal volume 112 with portion 108 filled with a synthesizing solution and crashed-out precipitates 110 collecting in the bottom of the internal volume 112. The width compared to the volume of the synthesizing solution causes stacking and crowding of the precipitates 110 which causes the surface-to-surface contact of adjacent and surrounding precipitates, reducing particulate access to water. The points of the precipitate’s surface that are in direct surface-to-surface contact with other precipitates do not have immediate and / or direct access to the synthesizing solution. The inventors have determined that crowding of the precipitates 110 increases the ageing time because portions of the surface of particulates have limited access to the synthesizing solution, which delays the peroxy ligand conversion to silver- mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles as colloids in solution.

[0100] FIG. 6C illustrates the second vessel 100c with a width / height >1 to increase the concentration of reactants per unit volume for access by the precipitates. In FIG. 1C, the second vessel 100c has an internal volume 116 with portion 114 filled with a synthesizing solution and crashed-out precipitates 118 collecting in the bottom of the internal volume 116. The precipitates118 are shown less crowded. Therefore, less portions of the surface of the precipitates 118 are in direct surface-to-surface contact with surrounding precipitates. As a consequence, the surface of the precipitates 118 compared to surface of precipitates 110 have an increase in access to the concentration of reactants per unit volume.

[0101] The form factor may be an important consideration especially for the manufacture of large volumes of silver-mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles, especially if a single vessel is used.

[0102] FIG. 7 illustrates a system 200 for the peroxy ligand conversion to silver- mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles according to one embodiment. The system 200 may include vessel 100a and heating device 202. The bottom surface of vessel 100a may be in direct contact with the heating surface 204 of the heating device 202. The heat from the heating device 202 may be an accelerant to shorten the time for the peroxy ligand conversion to silver-mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles such that all the silver, such as silver precipitates evolve to a nonionized metallic phase.

[0103] Both heating and the form factor of the vessel provide two accelerants to shorten the time for the peroxy ligand conversion to silver-mediated cerium oxide nanoparticles. The low heat applied to the vessel 100a allows ageing to take place in a shorter time period as compared to other processes. In an embodiment that uses non-wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide

[0104] FIG. 8A illustrates a first closed system 302 in accordance with one embodiment. The first closed system 302 includes a vessel 300a. The methods for manufacturing AgCNP3 with a predominant Ce3+oxidation state is configured for closed system processing. A closed system minimizes introduction of contaminates since a single closed system vessel can be used throughout the manufacturing process to produce a volume of a colloidal composition of the manufactured AgCNP3 with a predominant Ce3+oxidation state with all ionized silver removed. The new synthesis eliminates the need to wash or any other post processing steps after all the silver is evolved to a non-ionizing metallic phase. Washing of AgCNP3 can lead to a decrease in the predominance of Ce3+to Ce4++4 oxidation states.

[0105] In some embodiments, a colloidal composition of the manufactured AgCNP3 with a predominant Ce3+charge and all ionized silver removed can be manufactured in a vessel that is for example 250+ gallons and subsequently, sold and distributed (transported) using the same closed system vessel. The vessel may be approved for food grade applications meeting the Foodand Drug Administration (FDA) regulations. The vessel 300a may be made of polyethylene to hold a volume of fluid. The vessel 300a may be supported by a cage 308 and pallet 310 made of steel, aluminum, or other metal. The vessel may include an inlet 306, such as on top of the vessel, and an outlet (not shown).

[0106] An example vessel is an IBC tank with steel pallet, sold by ULINE, 12575 Uline Drive, Pleasant Prairie, WI, 53158. Another example vessel includes a 275 Gallon Rebottled IBC Tote that is sold by The Tank Depot, 658 John B Sias Memorial Parkway, Ste 330, Fort Worth, TX, 76134. Vessels of other sizes may be used that are smaller or larger than those described herein.

[0107] FIG. 8B illustrates a second closed system 304 in accordance with one embodiment. The second closed system 304 may include a vessel 300b, shown in dashed lines. The vessel 300b may be made of polyethylene configured to house a volume of a fluid or solution for the manufacture of AgCNP3 with a predominant Ce3+charge. The vessel 300b may be supported by a cage 312, shown in dashed line, which may be made of steel, aluminum, or other metal. The vessel 300b may include an inlet, such as on top of the vessel, and an outlet (not shown). The cage and pallet may be designed to allow for stacking vertically, in some examples, of the vessel 300b.

[0108] The second closed system 304 may also include a heating device 316. The heating device 316 may include an IBC tote heater configured to wrap around vertical side of the cage and vessel. The IBC tote heater may be sold by The Tank Depot, 658 John B Sias Memorial Parkway, Ste 330, Fort Worth, TX, 76134. Another example is Global Industrial® Insulated Tote Heating Blanket For 275 Gal IBC Tote, Up To 145°F, 120V. The heating device 316 may include a heating jacket that wraps around the vessel 300b and includes straps 320 with fasteners 322. The heating device may include a control panel to control the heating temperature supplied by the heating device 316.

[0109] In some methods described herein below, the heating device 316 is applied after the precipitates crash-out of solution to the bottom of the synthesis volume. In one embodiment, the heat may be applied essentially immediately after all of the ingredients are added to the vessel to make the amount of solution.

[0110] The formulation of cerium oxide nanoparticles are produced with surfaces modified by stable metallic silver nanophases. Materials characterization shows that the silvercomponents in each formulation are unique from each other and decorate the ceria surface as a Janus-type two-phase construct. The average diameter of AgCNP3 is about 3 nm to 5 nm. The crystallite sizes are 3-5 nm, which can also be the particle size. In some methods the crystallites agglomerate together, so the crystallite size is smaller than the particle size.

[0111] For example, an AgCNP3 ingredient is preferred for high touch surfaces, including toilets, sinks, door handles, walls, faucets, hard surfaces, cages, etc.

[0112] Each synthesis further possesses unique mixed valency with AgCNP3 possessing a significantly greater fraction of Ce3+states relative to Ce4+over catalase mimetic AgCNPl or AgCNP2. The distinct valence characters, along with incorporation of chemically active silver phases, lead to high catalytic activities for each formulation. AgCNP3 possesses high superoxide dismutase activity.

[0113] There are a variety of methods to synthesize nanoceria particles, including wet chemical, solvothermal, microemulsion, precipitation, hydrolysis and hydrothermal, such as described in S. Das, et al., “Cerium oxide nanoparticles: applications and prospects in nanomedicine,” Nanomedicine 8(9) (2013) 1483-1508 and C. Sun, et al. “Nano structured ceriabased materials: synthesis, properties, and applications,” Energy & Environmental Science 5(9) (2012) 8475-8505, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Based on the synthesis methodology employed, the size of these NPs varies broadly from 3-5 nm to over 100 nm, and the surface charge can vary from -57 mV to +45 mV.

[0114] Further, analysis demonstrates that silver incorporated in each formulation is substantially more stable to redox- mediated degradation than pure silver phases: promoting an increased lifetime in catalytic applications and low probability of ionization of the silver phase.

[0115] Use of AgCNP3 formulation in effecting antimicrobial properties showed specific activity in tests associated with bacteria with, among bacteria species tested, AgCNP3 showing substantial activity towards Staphylococcus mutans, such as Staphylococcus aureus.

[0116] Although the amount is not intended to be limiting, when used in methods of the invention, some preferred amounts of silver percentages associated with the AgCNP3 being about 8% to 15% or less.

[0117] In some embodiments, the AgCNP of the NanoRAD ingredient is produced via a method comprising dissolving cerium and silver precursor salts such as cerium and silver nitrates and oxidizing the dissolved cerium and silver precursor salts in an aqueous polymer solution.The cerium precursor salts are dissolved prior to silver salt. The purity on cerium nitrate hexahydrate can be as low as 99.9% with the silver purity also at 99.9% wherein the process is completed aged within 24 hours.

[0118] FIG. 9A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a touch screen 1450 in accordance with one embodiment. The touch screen 1450 may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) layer 1404. The LCD layer 1404 may include a liquid crystal cells sub-layer, for example. The LCD layer 1404 may include other sub-layers such as, without limitation, a plurality of sub-layers that include a fluorescent panel, polarization filter(s) and / or color filters (red, green, blue).

[0119] The touch screen 1450 may include a touch screen layer stack 1402 with one or more capacitive or resistive layers 1406 and 1410 above the LCD layer 1404, for example. The layer 1404 may include a plurality of layers. In this example, between layer 1406 and layer 1410, electrode layer 1408 may be provided. The capacitive or resistive layer(s) 1406, 1410 may include transparent conductive oxide (TCO) material made from ITO, ATO, or a conductive clear polymer. An example, touch screen is described in U.S. Patent No. 8,400,408, titled “TOUCH SCREENS WITH TRANSPARENT CONDUCTIVE MATERIAL RESISTORS,” assigned to Apple Inc., which is incorporated herein by reference in entirety.

[0120] The transparent conductive oxide material is made from indium zinc oxide (IZO) or similar other transparent conductive oxides.

[0121] The touch screen layer stack 1402 may include a top layer 1412 on top of the one or more capacitive or resistive layers 1406 and 1410. In this example, the touch screen 1450 includes capacitive or resistive layer 1406 above the LCD layer 1404, electrode layer 1408 followed by a capacitive or resistive layer 1410. The touch screen layer stack 1402 includes a touch screen top layer 1412 above the capacitive or resistive layer 1410. Although the touch screen layer stack 1402 includes an LCD layer 1404, the LCD layer 1404 may be substituted with an LED layer that incorporates types of light-emitting diode technology or LCoS technology. For example, the LCD layer 1404 may be substituted with organic light-emitting elements.

[0122] Each layer of the touch screen may include sub-layers. Furthermore, the touch screen 1450 may include other layers not described herein based on the touch screen design.

[0123] The touch screen top layer 1412 may be a protective cover such that the capacitive or resistive layer(s) 1406 and 1410 are sandwiched between the top layer 1412 and thelower LCD layer 1404. The top layer 1412 may be made of glass or other transparent protective polymer.

[0124] Touch screen 1450 may include mutual-capacitive touch panels formed from rows and columns of traces on opposite sides of a dielectric. At the “intersections” of the traces, where the traces pass above and below each other (but do not make direct electrical contact with each other), the traces essentially form two electrodes with a mutual capacitance therebetween.

[0125] The touch screen 1450 may include a nanoparticle coating 1420, denoted with dotted hatching, having a coating composition of AgCNP3 having a predominantly 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component and a binder suitable for glass and which maintains transparency. The coating 1450 having the AgCNP3 (AgCNP as taught in this application) may be bonded to the external side of the top layer 1452?, where the AgCNP3 may be combined with a binder configured to cause nanoparticles to adhere to a glass surface or glass ceramic surface, such as a top layer of a touch screen surface, to coat the glass surface. The coating may have a thickness in the range of 0.55 to 1.8 millimeters (mm).

[0126] An example binder is described in U.S. Patent No. 10,155,361, titled “METHOD OF BINDING NANOPARTICLES TO GLASS,” assigned to Corning Incorporated, which is incorporated herein by reference in entirety.

[0127] The coating composition may include a dispersant additive to assist with AgCNP3 mixing. An example dispersant additive includes DISPERBYK-2081, manufactured by BYK- Chemie GmbH, Germany, or a solution of polycarboxylic acid salt. An example dispersant additive includes DISPERBYK-2019, manufactured by BYK-Chemie GmbH, Germany, or a solution of a copolymer with pigment- affinic groups. Recommended levels of the DISPERBYK-2019 additive is 20-60% for transparent iron oxides; 5-40% for inorganic pigments; and 6-8% for titanium dioxide. An example dispersant additive includes BORCHI Gen 1750, manufactured by Borchers, or high molecular weight, volatile organic compound (VOC) free wetting and dispersing agent. Recommended levels of the BORCHI Gen 1750 additive is 50-70% in a mixture including transparent iron oxide; 4-8% in a mixture including titanium dioxide. An example dispersant additive includes BORCHI Gen 12, manufactured by Borchers or low molecular weight non-ionic, alkyl phenol ethoxylates (APEO)- and VOC-free dispersant. Recommended levels of the BORCHI Gen 12 additive is 1-3% in an (oxide) based mixture including titanium dioxide.

[0128] The touch screen 1450 may include a support element such as glass, glass ceramic, or the like, a binder and a nanoparticulate layer of AgCNP3 to provide a nanotextured glass surface that has high durability and is ion exchangeable to impart mechanical strength as well as self-disinfecting properties.

[0129] The binder may include an alkali silicate, borate, or phosphate. In some embodiments, alkali silicate comprises SiCT and Alk2O, wherein Aik comprises Li, Na or K at a ratio from about 0.05:1 to about 20.0:1 SiO2:Alk2O.

[0130] In some embodiments, alkali borate comprises R(HnAlk2O).B Oa, n=0 to <2, wherein R is about 0.05 to about 20.0 and Aik comprises Li, Na or K at a ratio from about 0.05: 1 to about 20.0:1 SiO2:R(HnAlk2O).B2O3.

[0131] In some embodiments, the binder comprises SiCh and HnAlka-nPCU, wherein n=0 to <3 and Aik comprises Li, Na, or K, at a ratio from about 0.05:1 to about 20.0:1 SiO2:HnAlk3- nPCL.

[0132] In some embodiments, the binder comprises SiCh at a weight percent from about 0.1 to about 40.0.

[0133] In some embodiments, the binder is heat-treated to remove water and to form a glass layer or coating.

[0134] The binder may be applied by dip coating, spin coating, slot coating, sputtering, DC magnetron sputtering, and various deposition processes. The deposition processes may include vapor deposition, chemical deposition, spray deposition, direct nanoparticle deposition, etc.

[0135] In some embodiments, the thickness of the binder comprises less than about one- quarter average diameter or one-half average diameter or the average diameter of said nanoparticles.

[0136] The binder may be a binder commonly used to incorporate nanoparticles into ITO such as polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP). The dispersant additive or binder themselves may be able to achieve good mixing and homogeneity separately or together but is based on the specific manufacturing technique.

[0137] Referring now to FIG. 9B, an electronic device 1400 or machine is provided that includes electronic circuitry 1460; and a touch screen user interface (e.g., touch screen display 1450) interfaced with the electronic circuitry, the touch screen user interface includes a topsurface layer coated with a coating composition comprising silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-30 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of 1 weight percentage of a mixture having a binder and the AgCNP3.

[0138] In view of the foregoing, the embodiments herein are directed to an electronic device with electronic circuitry and a touch-sensitive user interface including a touch screen having a top surface layer and a coating including a coating composition that includes silver- modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and, as described herein, bonded to the top surface layer, the AgCNP3 being in the range of 3 nm to 30 nm.

[0139] In some embodiments, the touch screen may be integrated with stack layers of a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) display. The display may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a quantum dot display (QLED, or a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) display.

[0140] In some embodiments, a touch screen display device is provided having a selfdisinfecting top surface layer comprising a glass coated surface coated with a coating composition comprising silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-30 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of 1 weight percentage of a mixture having a binder and theAgCNP3.

[0141] In some embodiments, a top surface layer of a touch screen 1450 is provided that is a self-disinfecting top surface layer comprising a glass coated surface coated with a coating composition comprising silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-30 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of 1 weight percentage of a mixture having a binder and theAgCNP3.

[0142] In some embodiments, the binder may be applied to the glass surface to coat the surface by dip coating, spin coating, slot coating, sputtering, DC magnetron sputtering, or various deposition processes. The deposition processes may include vapor deposition, chemical deposition, spray deposition and direct nanoparticle deposition.

[0143] The silver in silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles of the coating composition may substitute a metal that may be an antimicrobial promoting metal that evolves to a non-ionizing metal. The silver in silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles of the coating composition may substitute a metal that may be an antimicrobial promoting metal and a noble metal.

[0144] In some embodiments, the silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles comprises an AgCNP3 in an amount of about 1% by weight in the coating composition. The amount may be 0.05 - 0.99 weight %.

[0145] The silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles of the coating composition may comprise a predominantly Ce3+oxidation state.

[0146] Moreover, the method may include forming a coating for a top surface layer of a touch screen, and / or a coating composition including the AgCNP3 in an amount of about 1% by weight in the coating composition where the AgCNP3 in the composition are in the range of about 3-30 nm in size. The amount may be about 0.05 - 0.99 weight %.

[0147] In some embodiments, the AgCNP3 of the coating composition for bonding to a touch screen is produced via a method comprising dissolving cerium and silver precursor salts such as cerium and silver nitrates and oxidizing the dissolved cerium and silver precursor salts.

[0148] In some embodiments, the AgCNP3 of the coating composition for bonding to a touch screen may be produced via a method comprising dissolving cerium and silver precursor salts such as cerium and silver nitrates; oxidizing the dissolved cerium and silver precursor salts via admixture with peroxide; and precipitating nanoparticles by subjecting the admixture with ammonium hydroxide.

[0149] In some embodiments, a method of disinfecting a touch screen surface includes coating the touch screen surface with a self-disinfecting nanoparticle coating composition including silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3), as described herein, and a binder where the AgCNP3 in the coating composition are in the range of about 3-30 nm in size and about 1 weight percentage.

[0150] A touch screen display including a touch screen layer stack having a plurality of layers that includes a top surface layer; and a touch screen coating composition coating the top surface layer, the touch screen coating composition comprising silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the ceriumcomponent and in a range of about 3-30 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of about 1 weight percentage of a mixture having a binder and the AgCNP3 is non-ionizing.

[0151] The touch screen layer stack includes one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a quantum dot display (QLED), and a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) display.

[0152] The binder includes one of alkali silicate, borate, phosphate and polyvinyl pyrrolidone.

[0153] The binder includes alkali silicate that comprises SiCh and All O, wherein Aik comprises Li, Na or K at a ratio from about 0.05: 1 to about 20.0: 1 SiO2:Alk2O.

[0154] The touch screen layer stack includes resistive or capacitive elements below the top surface layer, the resistive or capacitive elements are made of one of indium tin oxide (ITO) and antimony tin oxide (ATO).

[0155] The coating composition is self-disinfecting surface that is optically transparent.

[0156] The coating composition further includes a dispersant additive including a copolymer with oxide-affinic groups or polymer non-ionic dispersing additive, and the binder includes polyvinyl pyrrolidone.

[0157] An electronic device includes electronic circuitry; and the touch screen display having a touch screen coating composition as described herein and, interfaced with the electronic circuitry.

[0158] The touch screen display comprises one of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a quantum dot display (QLED) and a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) display.

[0159] The binder includes one of alkali silicate, borate, phosphate and polyvinyl pyrrolidone.

[0160] The binder includes alkali silicate that comprises SiO2 and Alk2O, wherein Aik comprises Li, Na or K at a ratio from about 0.05: 1 to about 20.0: 1 SiO2:Alk2O.

[0161] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart of a method 1500 for forming a touch screen display in accordance with one embodiment. The method 1500 of forming a touch screen display includes: providing the touch screen layer stack that includes a top surface layer; forming a touch screen coating composition, the touch screen coating composition comprising silver- modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation stateof the cerium component and in a range of about 3-30 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of about 1 weight percentage of a mixture having binder with the mCNPS, such as, but not limited to, AgCNP3 that is non-ionizing; and coating the top surface layer while forming the coating composition that forms a self-disinfecting surface that is optically transparent.

[0162] The mixture further comprises: a dispersant additive including a copolymer with oxide-affinic groups or polymer non-ionic dispersing additive, and the binder includes polyvinyl pyrrolidone; and the forming of the coating composition further comprises mixing the dispersant and the binder.

[0163] A touch screen coating composition for coating a top surface layer of glass, includes a binder; and silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-30 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of about 1 weight percentage of a mixture having the binder and the AgCNP3 that is non-ionizing. The coating composition may include a dispersant additive including a copolymer with oxide-affinic groups or polymer non-ionic dispersing additive, and the binder includes polyvinyl pyrrolidone.

[0164] The method 1500 may be performed in the order shown or a different order. One or more of the blocks or steps may be performed contemporaneously. Additionally, one or more blocks or steps may be added or deleted.

[0165] The method 1500 may include, at 1502, providing a touch screen layer stack that includes a top surface layer. The method 1500 may include, at 1504, forming a coating composition, the coating composition comprising silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-30 nm or 3-35 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of about 1 weight percentage of a mixture having a binder and the AgCNP3. In some embodiments, the AgCNP3 being mixed with a dispersant prior to fabrication into ITO / binder.

[0166] The mixture of the coating composition may have a dispersant additive, a binder, or dispersant additive and binder with the AgCNP3. The dispersant additive may include a copolymer with oxide-affinic groups or polymer non-ionic dispersing additive. The binder may include polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP).

[0167] The method 1500 may include, at 1506, coating the top surface layer while forming the coating composition that forms a self-disinfecting surface that is optically transparent.

[0168] Other uses of the AgCNP3 ingredient include use in the treatment of wound healing.

[0169] In some embodiments, treatments for wound healing may include applying a therapeutic dosage of wound healing composition to a fiber pad of a wound care article, described in relation to FIGS. 11-17 to form a wound healing article including both the wound care article and the therapeutic dosage of the wound healing composition.

[0170] In some embodiments, treatments for wound healing may include applying a therapeutic dosage of tissue glue, tissue adhesive, or surgical glue on the wound and covering or dressing a wound or surgical incision with a wound care article, described in relation to FIGS. 11-14.

[0171] As described herein, the wound care articles, wound healing articles, and articles incorporating treated fiber material treated with a solution including a mixture of 0.01 wt% of AgCNP3 ingredient and one or more of a binder, a dispersant, and a stabilizer, described herein, are a therapeutic article of manufacture. The AgCNP3 ingredient of the therapeutic article of manufacture includes AgCNP3 that have a predominant 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component, in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size and includes a stable non-ionizing silver that has antimicrobial promoting properties.

[0172] The therapeutic article of manufacture includes treated fibers that eradicate bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus.

[0173] The therapeutic article of manufacture includes treated fibers that eradicate respiratory viruses, such as Rhinovirus 14, SARS-CoV-2 surrogate OC43 coronavirus and Parainfluenza virus type 5.

[0174] The therapeutic article of manufacture includes treated fibers that eradicate bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus, and viruses, such as Rhinovirus 14, SARS-CoV-2 surrogate OC43 coronavirus and Parainfluenza virus type 5.

[0175] The therapeutic article of manufacture includes treated fibers in a form factor designed as a barrier which can also treat a wound, incision or laceration formed in the epidermisor other anatomic tissue by preventing formation of bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus.

[0176] The therapeutic article of manufacture includes treated fibers in a form factor designed as a barrier which can protect the wearer from inhaled air from inspiration or inhalation that includes viruses, such as Rhinovirus 14, SARS-CoV-2 surrogate OC43 coronavirus and Parainfluenza virus type 5; and / or expiration particles that may include viruses, such as Rhinovirus 14, SARS-CoV-2 surrogate OC43 coronavirus and Parainfluenza virus type 5, trapped in the treated fibers.

[0177] The therapeutic article of manufacture includes treated fibers in a form factor designed as a barrier which can limit the spread of viruses, such as Rhinovirus 14, SARS-CoV-2 surrogate OC43 coronavirus and / or Parainfluenza virus type 5 upon expiration or exhalation of the wearer carrying such virus.

[0178] The therapeutic article of manufacture promotes wound healing and / or antimicrobial infection control.

[0179] FIG. 11 illustrates a wound care article 1600 according to an embodiment. The wound care article 1600 may include a body 1605 that includes a fiber pad with at least one layer or ply of material, denoted as numeral 1620. The material 1620 includes sterile fibers. The material fibers may be treated with a solution including a mixture of 0.01 wt% of AgCNP3 ingredient and one or more of a binder, a dispersant, and a stabilizer, wherein the AgCNP3 ingredient includes AgCNP3 that have a predominant 3+ cerium charge, a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size and only a stable non-ionizing metallic silver phase that has antimicrobial promoting properties. The wound care article 1600 may be a single-ply gauze material, a gauze pad, or a gauze sponge. The gauze pad may have multiple plies of gauze material.

[0180] A wound healing article may include a body having fibers treated with a mixture including a polymeric binder with silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component. The AgCNP3 may be further mixed with a dispersant and / or stabilizer to promote adhesion with the binder and / or fibers. In some embodiments, the fibers may be formed of the mixture. The AgCNP3 may be in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size. The AgCNP3 may be mixed in an amount that is in a range of about .01 to 0.8 weight percentage of a mixture having the binder (or binderdispersant and / or stabilizer) and the AgCNP3 where silver is an antimicrobial promoting metal with only a stable metallic non-ionizing silver phase.

[0181] The polymeric binder may include a biocompatible polymer such as, without limitations, polyethylene glycol (PEG), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), PEG-PLGA copolymer, polycaprolactone (PCL), Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PetOx) and polyurethane. The binder may include PetOx which has a CAS No. of 25805-17-8 and a molecular formula of [C5H9NO]n.

[0182] The dispersants and stabilizers may include, without limitation, a cellulose polymer, Bile acids sodium salt, cholic acid-deoxycholic acid sodium salt mixture, Alcohols, C12-14 secondary Ethoxylated Dodecyldimethylamine Oxide (DDAO), Polyethylene Glycol and a block copolymer surfactant. The dispersant and / or stabilizer promote adhesion with the binder and / or the fibers of the body.

[0183] The body 1605 may include a 4” x 4” 8-ply gauze sponge or pad, a 2” x 2” 4-ply gauze sponge or pad or a medical grade gauze sponge or pad. For example, the body 1605 may include an 8”xl0”, 12” x 12” or 12” x 16” gauze sponge or pad for an abdomen for abdominal surgical incisions or lacerations. The body 1605 may include any number of layers (i.e., plies) and / or sizes for various parts of the anatomy. For example, the body 1605 may include 2-12 plies of cotton fiber material 1620. The body 1605 may be packaged individually in a sterile packing (not shown). The body 1605 may include a length of material that is rolled up or wound to form a bandage roll. The gauze material may be available in a variety of thread counts.

[0184] In some embodiments, the term “treated” may include drying or curing a sterile solution with 0.01 wt% of AgCNP3 ingredient, such as AgCNP3 in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size, on the fibers of material 1620.

[0185] In some embodiments, the fiber material 1620 may be a blend of material fibers. The fiber material may include one or more of polymers, yams, cotton, and synthetic polymer fibers. In some embodiments, the fiber material 1620 may include 100% cotton. The blend of material fibers may include spandex such that the material stretches and / or provides compression to the wound sight when the wound care article is wrapped around a wound. The fiber material 120 may include a moisture- wicking fibers. The fiber material 1620 may include a ply of woven fibers and a ply of non-woven fibers. The fiber material 1620 may be a non-adhesive material that includes non-adherent fibers that will not stick to a wound.

[0186] For example, the material may include a Celox™ gauze material with quick clotting properties.

[0187] The wound care article 1600 may be a sterile bum dressing. The material may be a gel-soaked medical-grade non-woven material. The wound care article 1600 or material 1620 may be First Aid Only FAE-3000 series, FAE-5000 series and FAE-7012 compliant. The wound care article 1600 may include hydrogel impregnated non-adherent gauze. The hydrogel impregnated non-adherent gauze provides a moist healing environment around the wound wherein the hydrogel (such as, without limitation, PEG or a PEG-PLGA copolymer) is mixed with 0.01 wt% of a AgCNP3 ingredient that has a predominant 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size and a stable non-ionizing metallic silver phase that has antimicrobial promoting properties.

[0188] In some embodiments, the treated fiber material 1620 may have a form factor of an ace bandage with elastic fibers. For example, the treated fiber material 1620 may be a sterile self-adherent wrap material. Self-adherent wrap material is made by 3M™ Company using a trademark COBAN.

[0189] In some embodiments, the treated fiber material 1620 compatible with FAE-7012 is used for the treatment of skin burns.

[0190] In some embodiments, the treated fiber material 1620 treated with a mixture having the AgCNP3 ingredient may have a form factor of STERI-STRIP, such as manufactured by 3M™ Company in Saint Paul, MN, or thin adhesive bandages made by other manufacturers that can be used to close a laceration that may or may not have sutures to hold the skin together.

[0191] In some embodiments, the treated fiber material 1620 treated with a mixture including the AgCNP3 ingredient may be integrated into an advanced dressing containing biological or naturally derived agents. In some embodiments, the treated fiber material 1620 treated with the AgCNP3 ingredient may be integrated into an advanced dressing containing biological or naturally derived agents.

[0192] The treated fiber material 1620 may have a face mask form factor to prevent or limit spreading a respiratory track illness or lung disease. The treated fiber material 1620 may have a face mask form factor for the treatment of a wound to a lung or respiratory track injury from a biological or chemical inhalation or disease. In this case, the fiber material 1620 is applied to cover the nostrils of the wearer’s nose or mouth. If the wearer exhales a virus, thetreated fiber material 1620 traps the virus to treat the vims, which eradicates the vims to prevent or limit the spread of the virus. The treated fiber material 1620 may also be used to prevent or limit the re-inhalation of the vims by the wearer or inhalation of the vims from the ambient air of the environment.

[0193] The treated fiber material 1620 may have a replaceable filter form factor configured to be inserted into a face mask or professional breathing protection devices for prevention of wounds or injury to the respiratory track or lungs from Rhinovims 14, SARS-CoV- 2 surrogate OC43 coronavims and Parainfluenza virus type 5.

[0194] The treated fiber material 1620 may have N95 Respirator Mask form factor or KN95 Respirator Mask.

[0195] The treated fiber material may have a Respirator Mask form factor.

[0196] In some embodiments, the treated fiber material 1620 treated with a mixture with the AgCNP3 ingredient may be integrated into anti-inflammatory and analgesic dressing.

[0197] In some embodiments, the treated fiber material 1620 may include impregnated fibers with a wound healing composition described herein.

[0198] FIG. 12 illustrates a wound care article 1700 according to an embodiment. The wound care article 1700 may include a body 1705 having a first layer 1707 having a pad of fiber material 1720 treated with a solution including 0.01 wt% of AgCNP3 ingredient and one of or a combination of polymeric binder, a dispersant, and a stabilizer, the AgCNP3 of the AgCNP3 ingredient has a predominant 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size and evolves to a stable non-ionizing silver metallic phase that has antimicrobial promoting properties. The first layer 1707 may include at least one layer or ply of a fiber material 1720 (i.e., fiber material 1620) or other fibers described above in relation to FIG. 11.

[0199] The wound care article 1700 may include a second layer 1710. The second layer 1710 is shown hatched with dots. The second layer 1710 may be a waterproof layer of material with a coating of low tactile adhesive or glue compatible for adhesion directly onto the surface of skin. The second layer 1710 may be a pressure sensitive adhesive layer that adheres to the skin by application of pressure to the low-tactile adhesive. The adhesive layer may be a high- grab / instant tack adhesive. The wound care article 1700 may be compatible with International Standardization Organization (ISO) 10993 for medical bandages.

[0200] The second layer 1710 may be an adhesive strip constructed from thin films (or other types of polymers) such as, without limitations, made from polyurethane or polyethylene, and provide high-grab / instant tack adhesive. The thin films may be such as manufactured by 3M™ Company in Stain Paul, MN.

[0201] In some embodiments, the treated fiber material 1720 treated with the AgCNP3 ingredient may have a form factor of gauze fibers incorporated into transparent thin films, such as in a 3M™ TAGADERM roll with a transparent film dressing, such as manufactured to 3M™ Company in Saint Paul, MN. An amount of about 0.8 wt% of AgCNP3 may be incorporated directly into the adhesive layer of the dressing, in a similar fashion to incorporation into fibers.

[0202] In some embodiments, the second layer 1710 may include elastic fibers and with a length to surround a portion of the anatomy, such as a wrist, arm, leg, foot, abdomen, chest and head. The elastic fibers may stretch to provide a compressive force around the body with the fiber pad of the first layer overlaying the wound or incision.

[0203] The second layer 1710 may be affixed to the first layer 1707 so that both the first layer 1707 and the second layer 1710 are applied essentially together to a wound and surrounding skin. Alternately, the second layer 1710 may be a separate distinct layer that can be individually applied over the first layer 1707 when treating a wound.

[0204] FIG. 13 illustrates a wound care article 1800 according to an embodiment. The wound care article 1800 may include a body 1805 having a fiber material 1820 (i.e., fiber material 1620) with a third layer 1830 comprising at least one peel-off liner 1831 A, 183 IB . In this example, the wound care article 1800 may include two peel-off liners 1831 A, 183 IB, which can be peeled away to expose the fiber material 1820 and the second layer 1810 including an adhesive strip. The third layer 1830 may overlay the treated fibers of the fiber pad and the low- tactile adhesive to protect the treated fibers and the low-tactile adhesive until use. The wound care articles 1600, 1700 and 1800 having a treated fiber pad that is treated with an amount of AgCNP3 may be used without a wound healing composition, an epithelial tissue healing agent, tissue glue, tissue adhesive, or surgical glue mixed with an amount of AgCNP3, described herein. The wound care articles 1600, 1700 and 1800 having a treated fiber pad may be used alone as a wound healing article to protect wounds or incisions from incubation of viruses or bacteria. The wound care articles 1600, 1700 and 1800 may be applied over surgical staples or medicalstitches. The wound care articles 1600, 1700 and 1800 may be changed periodically and replaced with new wound care articles as part of a wound care healing treatment regime.

[0205] FIG. 14 illustrates a wound healing article 1900 according to an embodiment. The wound healing article 1900 may include a body 1905 having a waterproof layer 1912 with an adhesive layer 1910. The waterproof layer 1912 and the adhesive layer 1910 may include sublayers that are combined into a single layer. The layer 1910 may include a thin-film adhesive that includes a low-tactile adhesive material or high-grab / instant tack adhesive material. In some embodiments, the waterproof layer 1912 and adhesive layer 1910 may include a self-adherent wrap material. The wound healing article 1900 may include, in the body 1905, a matrix layer 1915 with open pores or a semipermeable membrane which are non-adherent materials. The matrix layer 1915 may comprise non-adherent material.

[0206] The waterproof layer 1912 has a first side that is intended to be exposed when in use. The waterproof layer 1912 includes a second side to which the adhesive layer 1910 is applied or incorporated.

[0207] The wound healing article 1900 may include, in the body 1905, a pad 1920 impregnated with or formed of a mixture or composite that includes an amount of a AgCNP3 ingredient that has a predominant 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size and evolves to a stable non-ionizing metallic silver phase that has antimicrobial promoting properties. For example, the composite may include a mixture of the AgCNP3 ingredient and a therapeutic dosage of epithelial tissue healing agent or wound healing agent. For example, the composite may include a mixture of a hydrogel and the AgCNP3 ingredient which forms a therapeutic dosage of epithelial tissue healing composite. The pad 1920 may be surrounded by the matrix layer 1915. However, a portion extends beyond the perimeter edges of the waterproof layer 1912 and the adhesive layer 1910 so that enough surface area is exposed to adhesively bond the wound healing article 1900 to the skin of a patient.

[0208] Wound healing article 1900 may include peel-off liners 2030 of FIG. 20.

[0209] Wound treatment may include applying the wound healing article 1900 to a wound by overlapping a wound or incision with the pad 1920 and applying pressure to the waterproof layer 1912 and the adhesive layer 1910. Additionally, applying slight pressure with a finger to the waterproof layer 1912 over the area of the pad 1920 causes a therapeutic dosage ofepithelial tissue healing composite to pass through the open pores or the semipermeable membrane and onto the wound.

[0210] The non- adherent semipermeable membrane or non-adherent porous material of body 1905 on top of and surrounding the treated fibers is used to dispense the therapeutic dosage of epithelial tissue healing agent or the wound healing agent through the non-adherent semipermeable membrane or the non-adherent porous material.

[0211] FIG. 15 illustrates a wound healing article 2000 according to an embodiment. The wound healing article 2000 may include a body 2005 having a waterproof layer 2012 with an adhesive layer 2010. The waterproof layer 2012 and the adhesive layer 2010 may include sublayers that are combined into a single layer. The layer 2010 may include a low-tactile adhesive material or high-grab / instant tack adhesive material.

[0212] The wound healing article 2000 may include, in the body 2005, a pad 2020 impregnated with or formed of a mixture that includes an amount of AgCNP3 having a predominant 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size and only a stable non-ionizing metallic silver phase that has antimicrobial promoting properties. The pad may include treated fibers that are impregnated with a healing wound composite. For example, the healing wound composite may include a mixture of the AgCNP3 ingredient and a therapeutic dosage of epithelial tissue healing agent.

[0213] The treated fibers may be impregnated fibers impregnated with or formed of a mixture including one or more of a binder, a dispersant, and a stabilizer; AgCNP3 that have a predominant 3+ oxidation state for the cerium component and in the range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size; and a therapeutic dosage of epithelial tissue healing agent.

[0214] The wound healing article 2000 may include, in the body 2005, at least one liner 2030 to cover and protect the pad 2020 and or the mixture or composite.

[0215] In some embodiments, the bodies 1605, 1705, 1805, 1905 and 2005 include one of bandages and dressings.

[0216] Any of the layers of articles 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900 and 2000 may be used or substituted in the other articles 1700, 1800, 1900 and 2000.

[0217] FIG. 16 illustrates a wound healing article 2100 having a body 2105 with a three- ply structure according to an embodiment. The body includes a first ply PL61, a second ply PL62 and a third ply PL63. The first ply PL61 may include a first material or fabric 2115. Insome embodiments, the first material or fabric 2115 may be a non-adherent material suitable for dressings or bandages. The second ply PL62 may include treated fiber material 2120 (i.e., treated fiber material 1620) treated with an AgCNP3 ingredient. The AgCNP3 ingredient includes silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size and is non-ionizing (i.e., only non-ionizing metallic silver phase). The treated fiber material 2120 may be treated with a mixture including the AgCNP3 and one or more of a polymeric binder, a dispersant, and a stabilizer. The AgCNP3 ingredient is mixed in an amount that is in a range of about .01 to 0.8 weight percentage of the mixture.

[0218] The third ply PL63 includes a third material or fabric 2112. The third material or fabric 2112 may be the same material or different as the first material or fabric 2115. In some embodiments, the first and third material or fabric 2115 and 2112 may be untreated gauze or 100a% cotton with the second ply PL62 being treated gauze fibers, for example. In other embodiments, the first and third material or fabric 2115 may be N95 Respirator Mask materials with an interior embedded layer corresponding to the second ply PL62 with treated fiber material 2120 (i.e., fiber material 1620).

[0219] In some embodiments, a ply may include one or more layers of a fabric or material for a dressing or bandage.

[0220] FIG. 17 illustrates a wound healing article 2200 having body 2205 with a two-ply structure according to an embodiment. The body 2205 includes a first ply PL71 and a second ply PL72. The first ply PL71 may include a first material or fabric 2215. The second ply PL72 may include the first material or fabric 2215. A portion of the first ply PL71 and the second ply PL72 includes treated fiber material 2220 treated with an AgCNP3 ingredient, as described above in relation to FIG. 20. The body 2205 includes stacked plies where directly opposing or interior surfaces of the first and second plies PL71 and PL72 are treated fiber material 2220 treated with a mixture including the AgCNP3 and one or more of a polymeric binder, a dispersant, and a stabilizer. The AgCNP3 ingredient is mixed in an amount that is in a range of about .01 to 0.1 weight percentage of the mixture.

[0221] FIG. 18 illustrates a side view of a wound healing article 2300 with a face mask form factor according to an embodiment. The body 2305 of the wound healing article 2300 may include at least one ply or layer of treated fiber material 2320. The body 2305 may includestraps 2317, one on each side of the body 2305, configured to be worn about ears of a wearer. Alternately, the body 2305 may include at least one strap 2317 having one end attached to a first side of the body and a second end attached to a second end of the body so that the at least one strap 2317 may be placed around the back of a head or neck of the wearer. The body 2305 may include two-ply structure shown in FIG. 22 or a three-ply structure shown in FIG. 15, for example.

[0222] The wound healing articles may be applied to at least one of the mouth and nose or areas adjacent to the breath stream from at least one of the mouth and nose. The wound healing articles described herein may be used to continually reduce the viral load near the mouth and nose and also prevent bacterial growth (from Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus) that are commonly found near a person’s nose and mouth.

[0223] FIG. 19 shows a surface 2402 of an article coated with a coating composition 2404 such as a NanoRAD coating, as described herein. The surface 2402 may be any hard surface such as cabinets, walls, sinks, toilets, countertops, floors, cars, ships, marine surfaces, computing devices, electronic devices, furniture, doorknobs, faucets, hospital beds, night tables, appliances, toys, and more. The surface 2402 may include man-made materials, metal, porcelain, ceramic, cement, wood, engineered wood, and engineered synthetic materials, for example. The surface 2402 may include a soft surface made of fibers, such as fabric, textile, and carpet. The coating composition 2404 may include clearcoat ingredients that are suitable for the particular surface application.

[0224] The soft surface may be made of fibers, paper or soft plastics or synthetic ingredients such as used to cover menus.

[0225] Example articles are shown in FIGS. 20A, 20B and 21A-21C. As should be understood, showing, and describing each and every possible article is prohibitive.

[0226] FIG. 20A illustrates a toilet seat 2502 coated with a coating composition, such as a NanoRAD coating, in accordance with one embodiment. The toilet seat 2502 may be mounted on a toilet bowl 2506. The toilet bowl 2506 may be made of porcelain while the toilet seat 2502 may be made of plastic, wood, or synthetic materials. Both the toilet seat 2502 and toilet bowl 2506 may be coated with different coating compositions 2404.

[0227] FIG. 20B illustrates a door 2508 with a door handle 2512 affixed to a plate 2510 in accordance with one embodiment. The door 2508 may be coated with a first coatingcomposition 2404, such as a NanoRAD coating, while the door handle 2512 and plate 2510 may be coated with a second coating composition 2404, such as another NanoRAD coating, different from the first coating composition.

[0228] FIG. 21A illustrates furniture such as nightstand 2606 and headboard 2608 coated with a coating composition, such as a NanoRAD coating, in accordance with one embodiment. In some embodiments, the headboard 2608 is attached to a bed 2602 having a pillow 2604. The nightstand 2606 and headboard 2608 may be coated with a coating composition 2404. In some embodiments, the nightstand 2606 and headboard 2608 may be made of similar material which is suitable for using a coating composition 2404 of the same type. In other instances, the nightstand 2606 and headboard 2608 may be made of different types of material requiring different NanoRAD coating compositions 2404.

[0229] FIG. 21B illustrates fabric 2610 coated with a NanoRAD coating in accordance with one embodiment. The fabric 2610 may include fibers that are configured to be coated with a coating composition 2404. The fabric 2610 may be used for curtains, for example, in a hospital, office, hotel, public location, residence, or building. The fabric 2610 may be used on soft surfaces, such as cushion chairs, sofas, beds, and the like.

[0230] The fabric 2610 may be made into a paper product.

[0231] FIG. 21C illustrates an interior wall 2612 of a building having a door 2616 and a window 2614 in accordance with one embodiment.

[0232] FIG. 22 illustrates a flowchart of a process 2718 for coating a surface in accordance with one embodiment. The process 2718, in block 2702, may include cleaning a subject surface. While it may be recommended to clean the subject surface with a cleaner to remove bacteria and organic material, it may be impossible to remove all bacteria and resistant bacteria. The NanoRAD coating described herein eradicates bacteria and biofilms on the surface after the NanoRAD coating is applied and permanently affixed, for example.

[0233] In block 2704, the process 2818 may include applying a NanoRAD coating composition to the subject surface. In block 2706, the process 2718 may include curing or hardening the NanoRAD coating composition to form and affix the NanoRAD coating to the surface of the article. In some embodiments, the curing is performed using a UV light, for example, having a wavelength range of 200 nm to 400 nm. The NanoRAD coating composition 104 may harden or cure in response to an application of UV light in the wavelength range of 200nm to 400 nm over a period of time. In other embodiments, the NanoRAD coating composition 2404 may be hardened or cured in response to an evaporation of water or application of radiated heat.

[0234] In block 2708, the process 2718 may include continuously and autonomously self- cleaning and / or self-disinfecting the NanoRAD coating for at least one month and up to one year. In block 2710, the process 2718 may include testing the NanoRAD coating for remaining useful life (RUL). It should be understood that the NanoRAD coating may be cleaned using commercially available cleaners, such as those applied by spraying and wiping, to remove organic material that may be deposited from interaction with humans or animals. Such cleaning is secondary to the self-cleaning and / or self-disinfecting by the NanoRAD coating to eradicate bacteria, viruses, and biofilms, for example.

[0235] In decision block 2712, a determination is made whether the RUL is below a level. If the determination is “NO,” then at block 2714, the process 2718 may include repeat testing after a delay, for example, testing may be repeated daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc. The delay may vary based on the determined RUL level. If the determination is “YES,” then, at block 2716, the process 2718 may include reapplying the coating composition.

[0236] The RUL level may be determined using image processing, where the pixels are analyzed based on the appearance of the fluorescing additive. For example, in a region of interest (ROI), if 5% (RUL threshold) of the pixels are not fluorescing, the NanoRAD coating may need to have a new application of the NanoRAD coating over the existing NanoRAD coating. In other examples, the NanoRAD coating in the ROI is greater than the RUL threshold, the entire coating in at least the ROI may be removed so that a new NanoRAD coating can be reapplied. The RUL threshold may be between 5% and 10%. In other embodiments, the RUL threshold may vary based on the article and exposure to frequency of touch by humans or animals.

[0237] The coating method may be applied during the manufacturing process of a hard or soft surface article or in the building. In some embodiments, the coating may be sprayed on to the surface. In other embodiments, the coating may be applied in any manner as a paint is applied, such as with a paint brush. During the manufacturing process, the NanoRAD coating composition may be applied during an additive manufacturing process.

[0238] The AgCNP3 ingredient can be combined into a composite with many forms of dental resins or sealants that may be applied to the teeth or the back teeth such as, without limitation, premolars, and molars. Premolars may include maxillary first premolar, maxillary second premolar, mandibular first premolar and mandibular second premolar. Molars may include first molars, second molars and third molars. Third molars are known as wisdom teeth which appear generally between 17 and 21 years of age, but may be removed earlier by surgery.

[0239] Therefore, in some embodiments, multiple applications of a dental resin composite may be needed. The resin or sealant may be applied to a non-permanent teeth and then subsequently, applied to permanent teeth.

[0240] There are many dental resins and sealants readily available on the market. In some embodiments, the dental appropriate resin composite may be a light-curable resin composite. The dental resin composite is applied in a therapeutically effective amount to coat the teeth. The amount of AgCNP3 is mixed or dissolved in the dental resin composite in an amount that is a therapeutically effective amount.

[0241] Example resin composites are described in U.S. Patent No. 4,826,893, titled “DENTAL RESIN COMPOSITION,” to Yamazaki et al., incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0242] In some embodiments, acrylic-based polymer resins such as methyl methacrylate- based resin systems that include other monomer polymers and fillers are appropriate types of resin composites.

[0243] A methyl methacrylate-based dental resin may include a methyl methacrylate polymer resin (heat cured or self-cured or light cured) such as polymethyl methacrylate, a polymethyl methacrylate curing process that is initiated by tertiary and amine compounds.

[0244] The methyl methacrylate -based dental resin may include monomer polymers and fillers where a poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) powder incorporates a filler such as silica, titania, or zirconia, and includes an initiator such as benzoyl peroxide. The methyl methacrylate- based dental resin may include a liquid component containing methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer, with a crosslinking agent and inhibitor, where a combination of liquid with powder components initiates polymerization.

[0245] The methyl methacrylate -based dental resin may include PMMA powder, methacrylate monomer polymers and fillers such as titania and silica.

[0246] Another example resin composite is described in Published Application WO / 201701886, titled "PHOTOPOLYMERISABLE RESIN COMPOSITE AND USETHEREOF,” to DeOliveira, et al., incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, the dental resin comprises a photopolimerisable resin composite with a higher filler particle content and a resin matrix of dimethacrylate monomers which are polymerized by free radical reaction initiated by the synergy of photoinitiator systems based on camphorquinone and (2,4,6- trimethylbenzoyl)diphenylphosphine oxide with monomer systems such as Bisphenol A Glycyl Dimethacrylate (Bis-GMA), Urethane Dimethacrylate (UDMA) Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate Phosphate (HEMA-P), glycerol dimethacrylate dihydrogen phosphate and mixtures of similar monomers.

[0247] A UDMA-based dental resin may include a photopolimerisable resin composite such as UDMA with a higher filler particle content and a resin matrix of dimethacrylate monomers, which are polymerized by free radical reaction initiated by the synergy of photoinitiator systems based on camphorquinone and (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)diphenylphosphine oxide.

[0248] In some embodiments, Urethane Dimethacrylate-based dental resins (that can include other monomers and fillers) may be used, as described in A. Szczesio-Wlodarczyk et al., “An Evaluation of the Properties of Urethane Dimethacrylate-Based Dental Resins,” www.mdpi.com / 1996-1944 / 4 / l / 2727 / htm, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0249] A urethane dimethacrylate-based dental resin is light curable and may include UMDA combined with ethoxylated bisphenol-A dimethacrylate, for example.

[0250] Nanoparticles have been known to improve impact strength of dental acrylic resins. [Shcherbakov et al., titled “CeCh Nanoparticles-Containing Polymers for Biomedical Applications: A Review, 17 March 2021, Polymers 2021, 3, 924, www.doi.org / 10.3390 / polym3060924.]

[0251] Treatment / Prevention

[0252] The method of preventing dental caries will be described in relation to FIGS. 23 A, 23B and 24, 25 and 26. The method of preventing dental caries may include forming a dental resin composite with AgCNP3 in the amount of about 0.01-0.1 wt. %. The method may include cleaning a subject’s teeth to remove surface contaminates. In some embodiments, surface contaminants may include plaque. Surface contaminants may include food particles,which may be embedded in the depressions or grooves naturally occurring or worn in the surface of a tooth or between surfaces of adjacent teeth.

[0253] FIG. 23A illustrates a subject tooth 2800 in a clean state. The tooth 2800 is represented in the gums 2820 of a subject. FIG. 23B illustrates a subject tooth 2800 of FIG. 23A with a coating 2815 of dental resin composite including AgCNP3 2817, coated on the tooth 2800. Specifically, the dental resin composite including AgCNP3 may be coated on the enamel of the tooth which is the outer surface of the tooth above the gums.

[0254] After the tooth surface (i.e., enamel) has been cleaned, the dental resin composite including AgCNP3 may be coated on the enamel of the tooth 2800. In some embodiments, the coating 2815 of the composite is cured. For example, the dental resin composite may be light cured. For example, an ultraviolet light (UV) source may be used. The curing process hardens the dental resin composite including AgCNP3 on the tooth’s surface.

[0255] FIG. 24 illustrates a coated subject tooth 2800 of FIG. 23B in the mouth 2930 with bacteria 2910, 2912 and 2920. FIG. 25 illustrates a coated subject tooth 2800 of FIG. 24 releasing directed hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to degrade or destroy caries-causing bacteria, denoted by 3010 and 3012. Bacteria that cause dental caries may include bacteria that feed on sugar, including carbohydrates that are left in the mouth. This bacteria may include, without limitation, streptococcus mutans, such as Streptococcus sobrinus, and lactobacilli acidophilus. The inventor has determined covering the tooth with cured dental resin composite with the silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) 2817, described herein, causes the autonomous release, from the AgCNP3, hydrogen peroxide directed against bacteria in an oral cavity to prevent local acidification of the tooth and prevents further decay. The release of hydrogen peroxide is a non-indiscriminate release in the body and generally limited to release for destroying bacteria having a propensity to colonize on teeth.

[0256] FIG. 26 illustrates the coated subject tooth 2800 of FIG. 35 with the bacteria 3010 and 3012 degraded or destroyed. The bacteria 4020 may be a different type of bacteria that does not have a propensity to colonize on teeth. Therefore, the AgCNP3 2817, as described herein, may not release hydrogen peroxide to destroy bacteria that do not make sustained contact with a treated tooth 4020.

[0257] Applications

[0258] The embodiments herein incorporate by reference in full US ApplicationNo. 17 / 973,640, titled “NANOPARTICLES TO PROMOTE WOUND HEALING ANDANTIMICROBIAL INFECTION CONTROL,” filed October 26, 2022.

[0259] The wound healing composition for the epithelial tissue including skin or eye tissue to target the oxidizing response need to kill viruses and bacteria to the virus and bacteria. Additionally, wound healing composition may include an epithelial tissue healing agent and AgCNP3, which acts as an antioxidant in the presence of healthy cells, promoting lower inflammation and cell growth. This allows for quicker closure of the wound while assuring that any trapped bacteria will not lead to an infection. The nature of the wound healing composition is that it works against a broad range of viruses and bacteria.

[0260] The epithelial tissue healing agent may be selected from a group consisting of preadipocyte modulator and an adipocyte modulator and contain in a pharmaceutically acceptable composition for subcutaneous administration, as described in U.S. Patent No. 7,638,484, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0261] The epithelial tissue healing agent may include a therapeutically effective amount of a viral vector comprising a polynucleotide coding for an adipokine, as described in U.S. Patent No. 7,638,484.

[0262] The skin cells colonizing the damaged skin or skin wound may be of any cell type which is involved in the wound healing process, such as keratinocytes, fibroblasts, adipocytes or preadipocytes. The cells can be transformed by a polynucleotide encoding an adipokine as defined hereinbefore. Alternatively, the cells can be transformed by a polynucleotide encoding a polypeptide capable of an adipokine activity, such as the polynucleotide encoding adipsin / complement D activity described in U.S. Patent No. 5,223,425, incorporated by reference.

[0263] The suitable polynucleotide can be introduced into cells by any one of a variety of known methods within the art. Such methods are generally described in Sambrook et al., (1989, 1992), Ausubel et al., (1989), Chang et al., (1995), Vega et al., (1995), Rodriguez and Denhardt (1988) and Gilboa et al., (1986), and include, for example, stable or transient transfection, lipofection, electroporation and infection with recombinant viral vectors. U.S. Patent No. 4,866,042 discloses a list of vectors involving the central nervous system, and U.S. PatentNos. 5,464,764 and 5,487,992 describe positive-negative selection methods for inducing homologous recombination, all of which patents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0264] The wound healing composition may include a tissue adhesive or glue and silver- modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) in a range of about 3-5 nm in size and mixed in an amount that is in a range of about .01 to 0.8 weight percentage of a mixture having the tissue adhesive and the AgCNP3.

[0265] The tissue adhesive or glue formulation may include the components for delivery and administration to a surgical incision or wound.

[0266] In certain embodiments, the tissue glue may include a fibrin glue. Fibrin glue as a surgical adhesive is well known in the art. The tissue glue may include hydrogels comprising, for example, but not limited to, polyethylene glycol (PEG), fibrin, dextrans, including dextrans suitable for chemical crosslinking and / or photo-crosslinking, albumin, polyacrylamide, polygly colic acid (PGA), polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl alcohol, poly(n-vinyl-2-pyrollidone), poly(2-hydroxy ethyl methacrylate), hydrophilic polyurethanes, acrylic derivatives, pluronics, such as polypropylene oxide and polyethylene oxide copolymer (POC), or the like.

[0267] The use of fibrin glue as a skin adhesive for closing surgical incisions is well known in the art. The glue compositions may also include additional components such as liposomes, for example. Example, fibrin glue compositions are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,290,552, which is incorporated by reference.

[0268] In certain embodiments, the adhesive or glue may comprise non-degradable materials, for example, but not limited to, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyethyleneterephthalate (PET), polyurethane, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene, silicone, and the like, or selectively degradable materials, such as poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid; PLGA), polylactic acid (PLA), or PGA.

[0269] In certain embodiments, the surgical glue or adhesive may be a photo-activated glue, acrylate-based adhesives, and the like.

[0270] Example synthetic hydrogels may include polyphosphazenes, poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and an interpenetrating and semi-interpenetrating hydrogels (e.g., PEG, and PEO-PEO- dimethylacrylate blends).

[0271] Example tissue adhesives may be a single component adhesive or multicomponent adhesive. Further suitable adhesives include synthetic adhesives and / or naturaladhesives. Suitable biocompatible adhesives for use in the wound healing composition include commercially available surgical adhesives, such as cyanoacrylate (such as 2-octyl cyanoacrylate, Dermabond™) and fibrin glue (such as Tissucol®).

[0272] There are many tissue glues, surgical glues, or tissue adhesives readily available on the market. The healing wound composition is applied in a therapeutically effective amount to the wound to close the wound. The amount of the AgCNP3 ingredient is mixed or dissolved in the wound healing composition in an amount that is a therapeutically effective amount with a surgical adhesive or glue.

[0273] The wound healing composition may include a solid composition or a liquid composition, by way of non-limiting example. For a solid composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition, conventional nontoxic solid carriers include, for example, pharmaceutical grades of mannitol, starch, magnesium stearate, talc, lactose, glucose, sucrose, sodium saccharin, magnesium carbonate, cellulose, and the like. For liquid pharmaceutically acceptable compositions, the pharmaceutically acceptable composition may be prepared by dissolving, dispersing, mixing, etc., an active compound, as described herein, and optional pharmaceutical adjuvants in an excipient such as, for example, saline, water, aqueous dextrose, ethanol, glycerol, and the like, to thereby form a solution or suspension. The pharmaceutical acceptable composition may contain minor amounts of nontoxic auxiliary substances such as wetting or emulsifying agents, pH buffering agents and the like, for example, sorbitan monolaurate, sodium acetate, triethanolamine oleate, triethanolamine acetate, etc. Specifically, the wound healing composition includes an amount of AgCNP3 mixed or dissolved in the wound healing composition includes about 0.01 to 0.8 weight percentage (wt%).

[0274] Methods of preparing dosage forms of the pharmaceutical acceptable composition are known, or will be apparent, to those skilled in this art. For oral administration, the pharmaceutical acceptable composition will generally take the form of a tablet or capsule, or may be an aqueous or nonaqueous solution, suspension, or syrup. Tablets and capsules for oral use will generally include one or more commonly used carriers such as lactose and corn starch. Lubricating agents, such as magnesium stearate, are also typically added. When liquid suspensions are used, the active agent may be combined with emulsifying and suspending agents. If desired, flavoring, coloring and / or sweetening agents may be added as well. Other optional components for incorporation into an oral formulation of the pharmaceutical acceptablecomposition herein include, but are not limited to, preservatives, suspending agents, thickening agents, and the like. One skilled in this art may further formulate the pharmaceutical acceptable composition in an appropriate manner, and in accordance with accepted practices, such as those disclosed in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gennaro, Ed., Mack Publishing Co., Easton, Pa. 1990.

[0275] The embodiments herein incorporate by reference in full U.S. Application No. 17 / 973,769, titled “THERAPEUTIC ARTICLE OF MANUFACTURE WITH NANOPARTICLES TO PROMOTE WOUND HEALING AND / OR ANTIMICROBIAL INFECTION CONTROL,” filed October 26, 2022.

[0276] The embodiments herein incorporate by reference in full U.S. Application No. 18 / 090,693, titled “CONTINUOUS SELF-DISINFECTING AND PATHOGEN ERADICATING COATING, ARTICLE OF MANUFACTURE WITH THE COATING AND METHOD OF APPLICATION,” filed December 29, 2022.

[0277] The embodiments herein incorporate by reference in full U.S. Application No. 17 / 973,720, titled “METAL-MODIFIED NANOPARTICLE ENABLED DENTAL RESINS FOR PREVENTION OF DENTAL CARIES,” filed October 26, 2022.

[0278] The embodiments herein incorporate by reference in full US Application No. 17 / 973,822, titled “ELECTRONIC DEVICE WITH SELF-DISINFECTING TOUCH SCREEN AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURE,” filed October 26, 2022.

[0279] In one embodiment, a process for manufacturing silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) is provided. The process includes using a process with at least one accelerant that speeds up the peroxy ligand conversion of AgCNP3 with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component, the at least one accelerant that accelerates evolution of all ionized Ag to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles as a non-ionized metallic silver phase is selected from the group consisting of: low heat of 90°-115°F during an aging process during which peroxy ligand conversion takes place; food grade or wholly unstabilized hydrogen peroxide; and a form factor ratio of a vessel in which the AgCNP3 age during the ageing process.

[0280] In one embodiment, a wound healing composition is provided that includes a tissue adhesive; and silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers(nm) in size and mixed in an amount that is in a range of about .01 to 0.8 weight percentage of a mixture having the tissue adhesive and the AgCNP3 wherein the AgCNP3 being produced using a method described herein.

[0281] In one embodiment, a therapeutic article of manufacture is provided that includes a body having fibers treated with a mixture including silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size and one or more of a polymeric binder, a dispersant, and a stabilizer, the AgCNP3 being mixed in an amount that is in a range of about 0.01 to 0.1 weight percentage of the mixture wherein the AgCNP3 being produced using a method described herein that uses at least one accelerant.

[0282] In one embodiment, a touch screen display is provided that includes a touch screen layer stack having a plurality of layers that includes a top surface layer; and a coating composition coating the top surface layer, the coating composition comprising silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-30 nm in size and in an amount that is in a range of about 1 weight percentage of a mixture having a binder and the AgCNP3 wherein the AgCNP3 being produced using a method described herein that uses at least one accelerant.

[0283] In one embodiment, a long-lasting and mechanically stable coating composition is provided that includes silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) ingredient selected from a group consisting of predominantly Ce3+, wherein the AgCNP3 being produced using a method described herein that uses at least one accelerant; and a paint where the AgCNP3 ingredient has a weight percent loading less than about 1 weight % in a mixture with the paint that is a durable adhesive coating once cured.

[0284] In one embodiment, a wound healing composition is provided that includes an epithelial tissue healing agent; and silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nm in size and mixed in an amount that is in a range of about .01 to 0.1 weight percentage of a mixture having the epithelial tissue healing agent and the AgCNP3 and wherein the AgCNP3 being produced using a method described herein that uses at least one accelerant.

[0285] In one embodiment, a dental resin composition is provided that includes a dental resin; and silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being thepredominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-25 nm in size and mixed in an amount that is in a range of about .01 to .8 weight percentage of a mixture having the dental resin and the AgCNP3, and the AgCNP3 effectuate release directed hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in an oral cavity that is then used against bacteria in the oral cavity to prevent local acidification of a tooth on which a therapeutically effect amount of the mixture is applied and cured and wherein the AgCNP3 being produced using a method described herein that uses at least one accelerant.

[0286] In one embodiment, a process for manufacturing silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) is provided that includes using a process with at least one accelerant that speeds up the peroxy ligand conversion of AgCNP3 having a predominant 3+ cerium charge, the at least one accelerant accelerates evolution of all ionized Ag to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles as a non-ionized metallic silver phase with no waste material byproduct.

[0287] In one embodiment, a process for manufacturing silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) is provided that includes mixing in a single vessel cerium nitrate hexahydrate and silver nitrate to form a solution; applying an accelerant to the solution; and forming from the solution the AgCNP3 with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component, the accelerant accelerates evolution of all ionized Ag to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles as a non-ionized metallic silver phase without any waste material byproduct.

[0288] In one embodiment, the accelerant is selected from the group consisting of: applying low heat of 90°-115°F during an aging process during which peroxy ligand conversion takes place; and adding a food grade hydrogen peroxide or a wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide.

[0289] In one embodiment, a process for manufacturing silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) is provided that includes forming in a single vessel an initial solution between 250 gallons to 275 gallons that comprises cerium nitrate hexahydrate, wholly unstabilized hydrogen peroxide and silver nitrate; applying heat to the initial solution; and ageing the solution which forms the AgCNP3 having a predominant 3+ cerium charge, and evolves all ionized Ag to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles as a non-ionized metallic silver phase without any waste material byproduct within the vessel in less than 24 hours.

[0290] In another embodiment, disclosed is a method of producing mCNPs, as described herein, an amount of chitosan may be combined with deionized water and cerium nitrate is added and may include the metal of silver. Further the AgCNP3 may be produced via a method comprising dissolving cerium and silver precursor salts such as cerium and silver nitrates; oxidizing the dissolved cerium and silver precursor salts via admixture with peroxide and precipitating nanoparticles.

[0291] FIG. 27 illustrates the effect of low molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.4 wt% on the aging process of CNP. FIG. 28 illustrates the effect of high molecular weight chitosan at a concentration of 0.4 wt% on the aging process of CNP. In both illustrations, the chitosan accelerates aging of unmediated CNPs. In both illustrations, the chitosan is combined with water to form a aqueous polymer solution. The middle image shows the color of the combined solution once CNP is added to the aqueous polymer solution. The final image, shown at 15.5 hours, the combined solution having a clarity similar to the aqueous polymer solution.

[0292] FIG. 29 shows the aging of CNP over time with no aqueous polymer solution utilized. FIG. 30 shows the aging of CNP with a water and PVP solution. The inventors evaluated both bio-polymer and synthetic polymer for use with CNPs. Shown above with respect to FIGS. 27 and 28 showing the use of a bio-polymer, aging occurred. However, when synthetic polymer is used in a water solution, as shown when comparing FIGS. 29 and 30 is used, the aging process for CNP was not accelerated.

[0293] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “including,” “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description and / or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” Moreover, unless specifically stated, any use of the terms first, second, etc., does not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc., are used to distinguish one element from another. As used herein the expression “at least one of A and B,” will be understood to mean only A, only B, or both A and B.

[0294] Embodiments are described herein with reference to the attached figures wherein like reference numerals are used throughout the figures to designate similar or equivalentelements. In some instances, figures are not drawn to scale and they are provided merely to illustrate aspects disclosed herein.

[0295] While various disclosed embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Numerous changes, omissions and / or additions to the subject matter disclosed herein can be made in accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the embodiments. Also, equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments. In addition, while a particular feature may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the embodiments without departing from the scope thereof.

[0296] Therefore, the breadth and scope of the subject matter provided herein should not be limited by any of the above explicitly described embodiments. Rather, the scope of the embodiments should be defined in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method for manufacturing silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3), comprising: ageing in a closed system un-aged cerium oxide nanoparticles in a solution that includes silver nitrate and placed within an aqueous polymer solution and uses at least one accelerant, the at least one accelerant speeds up peroxy ligand conversion of cerium oxide nanoparticles (CNP) having a predominant 3+ oxidation state and accelerates evolution of all, to Ippm or less of the limit of detection, ionized Ag to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles as a non-ionized metallic silver phase to form the AgCNP3, the at least one accelerant is selected from the group consisting of: a) aqueous polymer solution b) low heat of 90°-l 15°F applied to the closed system to heat the solution only after crash-out of the solution that is without an ingredient that incudes wholly unstabilized hydrogen peroxide; c) wholly un- stabilized hydrogen peroxide mixed in the solution prior to aging in the closed system; d) low heat of 90°-l 15°F applied to the closed system to heat the solution that includes wholly un- stabilized hydrogen peroxide; and e) a form factor (FF) ratio of a vessel of the closed system where the ageing takes place.

2. The method for manufacturing the AgCNP3 of claim 1, wherein the at least one accelerant includes wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide; and further comprising: mixing, in a single vessel, water, chitosan, cerium nitrate hexahydrate, and the silver nitrate to form the solution; adding the wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide to the solution in the single vessel; closing the vessel to form a closed system with the solution within the single vessel; and during the aging, forming from the solution the AgCNP3 with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35nanometers (nm) in size, the accelerant accelerates evolution of all, to 1 ppm or less of the limit of detection, ionized Ag to crystallize onto cerium oxide nanoparticles as a non-ionized stable metallic silver phase without any waste material byproduct that is greater than 1 ppm of ionized silver,3. The method of manufacturing the AgCNP3 of claim 2, wherein the at least one accelerant further includes the low heat of 90°-l 15°F applied to the closed system to heat the solution.

4. The method of manufacturing the AgCNP3 of claim 3, wherein: the vessel holds 275 gallons; and the ageing is completed in about 23 hours for IX concentration of ingredients in the solution of 250 gallons.

5. The method of manufacturing the AgCNP3 of claim 1, wherein the at least one accelerant includes the FF ratio wherein the FF ratio is Wl / HV > 1 such that the vessel has a height and an inner width (Wl) where a height of a volume (HV) of solution is less than the Wl so that the FF ratio is W 1 / HV > 1.

6. The method of manufacturing the AgCNP3 of claim 1, the at least one accelerant includes the low heat of 90°-l 15 °F applied to the closed system to heat the solution only after crash-out of the solution that is without the ingredient that includes the wholly un-stabilized hydrogen peroxide.

7. The method of manufacturing the AgCNP3 of claim 1, wherein the at least one accelerant includes an aqueous solution of 0.4-0.8 wt% LMW chitosan speeding up aging by a factor of 84X.

8. The method of manufacturing the AgCNP3 of claim 1, wherein the at least one accelerant includes an aqueous solution of 0.4-0.8 wt% HMW chitosan speeding up aging by a factor of 84X.

9. The method of manufacturing the AgCNP3 of claim 1, wherein the at least one accelerant includes low heat applied to the solution speeds up ageing by a factor of 3-6.

10. A formulation comprising: an aqueous solution including silver-modified cerium oxide nanoparticles (AgCNP3) with Ce3+being the predominant oxidation state of the cerium component and in a range of about 3-35 nanometers (nm) in size, wherein the aqueous solution including the AgCNP3 produced using a method of claim 1.

11. The formulation of claim 10, wherein the aqueous solution includes an accelerant that includes wholly 0.4-0.8 wt% LMW chitosan mixed in the aqueous solution prior to the introduction of silver nitrate and cerium nitrate hexahydrate aging in the closed system.

12. The formulation of claim 10, wherein the aqueous solution includes an accelerant that includes wholly 0.4-0.8 wt% HMW chitosan mixed in the aqueous solution prior to the introduction of silver nitrate and cerium nitrate hexahydrate aging in the closed system.

13. The formulation of claim 10, wherein the aqueous solution includes an accelerant that includes wholly un- stabilized hydrogen peroxide mixed in the aqueous solution prior to aging in the closed system.

14. The formulation of claim 10, wherein the at least one accelerant includes low heat applied to the aqueous solution with the AgCNP3 speeds up ageing by a factor of 3-6.

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