At the Kilmer 2025 Conference in Orlando, a compelling discussion unfolded on the transformative impact of research grants provided by the AAMI Foundation. The conversation, hosted by Brian Stallard, director of AAMI News, featured Ralph Basile of the AAMI Foundation and guest Dr. William Levia, a two-time Kilmer grant recipient whose research is pushing boundaries in infection prevention and medical device safety.
Levia recounted how his initial grant in 2022, received while completing his Ph.D., served as a launchpad for exploring the antimicrobial potential of copper-infused polymers in medical devices. Working alongside Dr. Zuniga and Dr. Len from the University of Nebraska, the research team used 3D printing to fabricate parts using this novel material, evaluating how it performs post-sterilization.
“The driver was to explore what if medical devices were to be manufactured with materials that eventually have antimicrobial properties,” Levia explained. “That was the original rationale, and it kickstarted my interest in reprocessing and sterilization of medical devices.”
The antimicrobial properties of copper – already used in environments like the International Space Station – made it a prime candidate for further study. Though promising, the research also raised questions about biocompatibility and potential toxicity, paving the way for continued experimentation.
Levia’s current project, also funded by the AAMI Foundation, focuses on the effects of superheated steam on sterile barrier systems (SBS), such as peel pouches used in medical packaging. Superheated steam, often a byproduct of over-modified sterilization processes, may compromise SBS integrity – with significant implications for sterility and sustainability.
“Sterilizers are designed to prevent superheated steam,” Levia said, “but human intervention often tweaks their performance. We’re now seeing a correlation between superheated steam and reduced ability of SBS to maintain sterility.”
His findings, expected to be presented at the AAMI Exchange in June, aim to guide both industry and healthcare facilities toward safer, more sustainable sterilization practices – potentially reducing unnecessary waste and environmental impact from repeated reprocessing.
Levia and Basile emphasized the value of the Kilmer grants in supporting unconventional but critical research. Unlike traditional federal grants that often require institutional affiliations, the Kilmer grant is accessible to independent researchers.
“This is a low-risk kind of grant that allows us to think a little bit differently,” Levia noted. “What if I get the resources? What if I help the industry move one tiny step forward? I invite everyone to apply.”
More information about the Kilmer grant and other AAMI Foundation opportunities can be found at www.aami.org, under the “AAMI Foundation” section.
“This is a great way to get funding that maybe our companies are not very keen to do because it’s not within the line of work we’re usually doing Monday to Friday,” said Levia. “This is a great opportunity – I definitely encourage anyone to apply.”
