Researchers have just proved that graphene and mosquitoes don’t get along

Researchers have just proved that graphene and mosquitoes don’t get along

Researchers from Hurt Lab, Brown University have found a new use for graphene as their research has uncovered its mosquito-repellent properties.

They created a thin film of graphene oxide and applied it on human test subjects that were brave enough to endure mosquito bites. First of all, the film was strong enough to prevent the penetration of the mosquito’s proboscis. The serrated appendage failed to pierce the tough film.

Further experiments conducted by the researchers also showed the ability of the film to act as a chemical barrier that prevents mosquitoes from detecting the presence of their blood-filled prey. The film used by the researchers was made from graphene oxide (GO). It can be rolled into films large enough to cover wide areas like a mosquito net.

It may also be incorporated into clothing to act as a physical and chemical barrier against mosquito bites. Best of all, it doesn’t involve the use of harmful pesticides.

Though the human test subjects were exposed to mosquito bites, especially those from control groups, who don’t have effective protection, no humans were adversely harmed or exposed to risk of disease. Disease-free mosquitoes, which were lab-breed, were used for the experiments.

The researchers, from Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States, have published their findings in “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences”.

Source: Phys.org