Swedish scientists from Chalmers University of Technology have created a graphene coating with exceptional antimicrobial properties. It works against all types of bacteria, including those resistant to antibiotics. The study was published in the scientific journal Advanced Functional Materials (AFM).
The team developed a graphene film with a surface covered in vertically standing flakes of the material. These particles act like blades, cutting pathogens into pieces.
The experts managed to build a palisade of microflakes with a high level of orientation homogeneity using ordinary magnets.
Until now, the bactericidal properties of graphene could only be controlled in one specific direction: the direction of flow during the production process.
The new method has made it possible to integrate graphene nanoplates into medical plastic surfaces. Experiments have shown that such a coating destroys 99.99% of bacteria upon contact.
The new technology for orienting graphene particles could also be used in batteries, supercapacitors, sensors and water-resistant packaging materials, the researchers said.
