A scalable approach to topographically mediated antimicrobial surfaces based on diamond

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Bio-inspired Topographically Mediated Surfaces (TMSs) with high aspect ratio nanostructures exhibit potent antimicrobial properties by mechanically disrupting cells.
• Scalability challenges persist with traditional micro/nanoscale fabrication techniques for these surfaces.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a cost-effective, scalable, and versatile method for producing TMSs using diamond nanotechnology.
• To evaluate the efficacy of diamond-based nanostructured coatings in limiting the spread of infectious diseases.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of diamond-based nanostructured coatings in a single-step fabrication process, yielding densely packed, spike-like morphology.
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis of antimicrobial properties of the diamond nanospike surface.
• Comparative analysis against copper, silicon, and non-nanostructured diamond surfaces.

Main Results:

• The diamond nanospike surface demonstrated superior biocidal activity compared to control surfaces.
• Scanning electron microscopy confirmed widespread destruction of E. coli cells on the nanostructured diamond surface.
• Consistent antimicrobial performance was observed even on a sample tested seven years after its preparation.

Conclusions:

• Diamond nanotechnology provides a scalable and effective approach for creating TMSs with significant antimicrobial capabilities.
• These nanostructured surfaces show promise for applications in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.