Evaluation of the effectiveness of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in the inact...
| Grant number: | 12/13003-5 |
| Support type: | Regular Research Grants |
| Duration: | October 01, 2012 - September 30, 2013 |
| Field of knowledge: | Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry |
| Principal Investigator: | Debora Goncalves |
| Grantee: | Debora Goncalves |
| Home Institution: | Instituto de Física de São Carlos (IFSC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil |
Abstract
In this project, we will evaluate the adverse effects caused by fungi on the surfaces of tropical timber reforestation, in particular Pinus elliottii, Eucalyptus grandis and Eucalyptus Citriodora after heat treatment (termorretification). The samples will be characterized by measuring the mass loss and contact angles of different liquids on the wood surfaces. We will study the wettability and adhesion for the samples within international standards, ie, controlling temperature and relative humidity. From the contact angle measurements, it is intended to obtain the surface free energy of different wood samples by the sessile drop dynamic method under the influence of moisture. The samples will be treated at different temperatures and, after thermal equilibrium, will be contaminated by fungi. The impact of the presence of fungi on the heat treated wood will be monitored by ATR-FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared - Attenuated Total Reflectance) and dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). These measurements will provide data on the areas attacked by the fungus aiming at monitoring the degradation of the samples with time, and controlling or reducing degradation after termorretification. The samples contaminated by the fungus will be restudied over time by measuring weight loss, contact angle, FTIR-ATR and DMA. From the results obtained, it is will be proposed methods of improving the preservation of some species of tropical timber reforestation woods under the attack of fungi. (AU)