Alexander L. Yarin, PhD

Distinguished Professor, University of Illinois at Chicago

M.S., Applied Physics (1977)
Polytechnical Insitute ( Technical University),
Leningrad (Sankt-Peterburg)


PhD , Physics and Mathematics (1980)
Institute for Problems in Mechanics,
USSR Academy of Sciences, Moscow

D.Sc., Physics and Mathematics (1989)
Institute for Problems in Mechanics,
USSR Academy of Sciences, Moscow

• Most Cited Article, 2006-2010, Polymer, Elsevier, 2008
• Fellow of the Center of Excellence "Smart Interfaces" Technical University, Darmstadt, Germany, 2008
• 3rd Prize of the Society of Mechanics, Taiwan, 2006
• Hershel Rich Prize – Technion Innovation Award, American Technion Society, 2005
• Prize for Technological Development for Defense against Terror, American Technion Society, 2003
• Gutwirth Award, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 1999
• Guastala Fellowship of Rashi Foundation (France) and The Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities, 1992-1995
• Awards of the Institute for Problems in Mechanics, USSR Academy of Sciences, in contests of research works, 1980-1990
• University Award for "Outstanding Student Research", Polytechnic Institute of Leningrad, 1974

Biodegradable and Biocompatible Soy Protein/Petroleum-Derived Polymer Electrospun Nanofiber Patches for Plant Protection

Abstract: Biodegradable and biocompatible soy protein/petroleum-derived polymer monolithic fibers containing adhesives were electrospun on commercial rayon pads. The soy content in these fibers was as high as 40 %w/w. Four different adhesives, including ordinary wood glue, repositionable glue and FDA-approved pressure-sensitive glue were used for electrospinning and their adhesive strengths compared. Separately, these adhesives were electrosprayed onto monolithic soy protein/ petroleum-derived polymer fiber mats. The adhesive strength was sufficient enough to withstand normal atmospheric conditions. These biodegradable and biocompatible nano-textured patches protect plants against fungi attack through prune locations and help preventing diseases like Vine Decline. The stickiness of the patches makes them ready to be used on prune locations without being carried away by wind and allowing sufficient porosity for plants to breath.