Prof. Gun-Ho Kim

Functionalized graphene–polymer nanocomposites have gained significant attention for their enhanced mechanical, thermal, and antibacterial properties, but the requirement of multi-step processes or hazardous reducing agents to functionalize graphene limits their current applications. Here, we present a single-step synthesis of thermally reduced graphene oxide (TrGO) based on shellac, which is a low-cost biopolymer that can be employed to produce poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/TrGO nanocomposites (PVA–TrGO). The concentration of TrGO varied from 0.1 to 2.0 wt.%, and the critical concentration of homogeneous TrGO dispersion was observed to be 1.5 wt.%, below which strong interfacial molecular interactions between the TrGO and the PVA matrix resulted in improved thermal and mechanical properties. At 1.5 wt.% filler loading, the tensile strength and modulus of the PVA–TrGO nanocomposite were increased by 98.7% and 97.4%, respectively, while the storage modulus was increased by 69%. Furthermore, the nanocomposite was 96% more effective in preventing bacterial colonization relative to the neat PVA matrix. The present findings indicate that TrGO can be considered a promising material for potential applications in biomedical devices.

About Me

Dr. Gun-Ho Kim is the Founder and CEO of RecensMedical, Inc., a medical device company focused on developing advanced precision cooling technologies to address critical unmet needs in ophthalmology and dermatology. Dr. Kim earned his undergraduate degree from Seoul National University and completed his Ph.D. at the University of Michigan. He currently holds the position of Associate Professor at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), one of South Korea’s leading research universities. Widely recognized as an expert in his field, Dr. Kim is an inventor on more than 100 international patents related to medical devices and cooling technologies. His invention, OcuCool–an ophthalmic cooling anesthesia device for intravitreal injections–is the first hospital-grade medical device developed in Korea to receive U.S. FDA approval under the De Novo classification. His research encompasses thermoelectric cooling systems, thermal transport phenomena in soft materials, and novel mechanisms of cold sensation in animals. His contributions to science, technology, and the healthcare industry have been honored with prestigious awards, including the Minister of Science and ICT Award, the Minister of SMEs and Startups Award, and the Ulsan Mayor’s Award.

Prof. Gun-Ho Kim

Prof. Gun-Ho Kim

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