Piezoelectric sterilization techniques: from innovations to applications

Piezoelectric materials have emerged as promising non-thermal, chemical-free sterilization agents, offering clear advantages over traditional methods such as heat, UV, or disinfectants. Their antimicrobial activity arises from direct microbial membrane disruption and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation under mechanical stimuli like ultrasound or vibration via piezodynamic reactions. These approaches preserve material integrity, making them ideal for implants, wound dressings, and biofilm prevention. Recent advances focus on enhancing piezoelectricity via defect engineering, dopants, and band structure optimization to improve ROS production. This review highlights progress in piezoelectric materials as smart, sustainable antimicrobial platforms with broad biomedical and environmental applications.