Simon Barratt

Introduction. Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium keratoplasticum are common causative pathogens of fungal keratitis (FK), a severe corneal disease associated with significant morbidity and vision loss. Escalating incidence of antifungal resistance to available antifungal drugs poses a major challenge to FK treatment. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a pioneering nonpharmacologic antimicrobial intervention that has demonstrated potential as a broad-spectrum antifungal treatment. Gap statement.

Foam based fire protection systems play a vital role in the protection of life, property and business in a wide range of processing, manufacturing and storage involving Class B ignitable liquids. Fire-fighting foams contain fluorinated surfactants and are chemicals known as PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances). In firefighting and fire-protection systems, PFAS helps to increase the speed of the foam coverage and make the bubble structure more resistant to fire and heat.

There is no doubt that the trend towards the use of synthetic fluorine-free foams (SFFF) in fixed fire-protection systems is gathering pace. The conversation is no longer if, or even when, it is simply that the market needs a solution now. Unfortunately, these solutions are not coming to market quickly enough to meet legislative and environmental demand and any hope of ‘drop-in replacements’ is beyond reality for now.