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Atomic-Precision Heterojunction Textiles Enable Sunlight-Powered Self-Disinfection
Lingyun Guo1, Jin Zhou1, Ronghua Liu1
1Basic Medical College, Shanxi Medical University,Taiyuan 030001, P.R. China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|August 7, 2025
Summary
This study presents a sunlight-activated antibacterial fabric using a novel pg-C3N4/ZnO coating. This eco-friendly approach offers durable, scalable sterilization for textiles and medical applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Textile Engineering
Background:
- Cotton fabrics' porous nature facilitates microbial growth, posing health risks.
- Conventional sterilization methods have limitations like equipment dependency and safety concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a sunlight-driven antibacterial solution for cotton fabrics.
- To create a durable and scalable antimicrobial textile technology.
Main Methods:
- Fabric surface modification with a pg-C3N4/ZnO heterojunction photosensitizer.
- Utilizing atomic layer deposition for precise ZnO integration.
- Employing amine-aldehyde covalent grafting for durability.
Main Results:
- Enhanced carrier separation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation (3.63-fold increase).
- Dual antimicrobial action via ROS and released Zn2+ ions.
- Demonstrated durable antibacterial performance under various conditions (washing, drying, daily use).
Conclusions:
- The pg-C3N4/ZnO composite provides efficient, sunlight-driven sterilization.
- This cost-effective, eco-friendly technology is suitable for hygienic textiles and medical environments.
