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High-throughput Identification of Bacteria Repellent Polymers for Medical Devices
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Bacteria-Resistant, Transparent, Free-Standing Films Prepared from Complex Coacervates.
Irene S Kurtz1, Shuo Sui1, Xi Hao1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Applied Life Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States.
ACS Applied Bio Materials
|October 4, 2019
Summary
New polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) coatings and films resist bacterial attachment. These robust, transparent materials offer potential for high-touch surfaces, especially in medical settings, by reducing Escherichia coli adhesion.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) are formed by electrostatic interactions between oppositely charged polymers.
- Developing advanced materials with antimicrobial properties is crucial for public health.
- Surface coatings that prevent bacterial adhesion without killing bacteria are desirable for specific applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate and characterize polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) coatings and films.
- To evaluate the bacteria-resistance properties of these PEC materials.
- To explore the potential applications of PEC coatings as bacteria-resistant surfaces.
Main Methods:
- Spin-coating of poly(4-styrenesulfonic acid), poly(diallyldimethyl-ammonium chloride), and salt to form PEC films.
- Thermal annealing in a humid environment to enhance film properties.
- Testing the attachment of *Escherichia coli* K12 to PEC coatings.
Main Results:
- Fabricated PEC films exhibited high transparency, mechanical strength, and chemical robustness after annealing.
- PEC coatings significantly reduced the attachment of *Escherichia coli* K12.
- The bacteria-resistance was achieved without killing the micro-organisms.
Conclusions:
- PEC coatings and films can be effectively fabricated using readily available polymers.
- These PEC materials demonstrate significant bacteria-resistant properties, specifically reducing bacterial attachment.
- The developed PEC coatings show promise for applications requiring bacteria-resistant surfaces, such as in medical environments.
