Ag₂O-Containing Biocidal Interpolyelectrolyte Complexes on Glass Surfaces-Adhesive Properties of the Coatings

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Biocidal coatings are crucial for infection control in healthcare settings.
• Developing effective and stable antimicrobial surfaces remains a significant challenge.
• Existing biocides often face issues with efficacy, stability, or material compatibility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the biocidal activity and adhesive properties of novel coatings incorporating silver oxide nanoparticles within an interpolyelectrolyte complex (IPEC).
• To evaluate the synergistic effects of inorganic and polymer components on antibacterial efficacy and coating stability.
• To explore the role of IPEC formation in enhancing coating adhesion at the nanoscale.

Main Methods:

• Ultrasonic dispersion of silver oxide (Ag2O) nanoparticles within a polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (PDADMAC) and sodium polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) interpolyelectrolyte complex (IPEC).
• Characterization of nanoparticle size, morphology, and stability.
• Assessment of biocidal activity against Escherichia coli K12.
• Evaluation of coating adhesion using dynamometry and optical tweezers.
• Analysis of electrostatic adsorption on glass surfaces.

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized stable silver oxide nanoparticles (5-6 nm) within a positively charged IPEC matrix.
• Achieved a >4-fold increase in antibacterial effectiveness against E. coli K12 compared to PDADMAC or IPEC alone.
• Demonstrated that coating stability is primarily governed by adhesive forces.
• Utilized optical tweezers to reveal a significant nanoscale enhancement in adhesive forces due to IPEC formation.

Conclusions:

• Ternary IPEC/Ag2O complexes offer a promising approach for developing advanced biocidal coatings.
• These coatings exhibit superior antibacterial action and enhanced adhesive properties.
• The findings suggest potential for improved infection prevention strategies in healthcare environments.