Graphene oxide enables novel coating for long-term protection against bacteria

Silver has long been used to fight bacteria, particularly in wound care, because of its ability to release ions that damage bacterial cells. But current approaches suffer from several downsides: silver can be released too quickly or unevenly, it may damage surrounding healthy tissue, and it’s often used in quantities that aren’t sustainable. The team tackled these issues by designing a graphene oxide-based membrane that can release silver ions slowly and precisely over time. The key lies in the structure of the membrane itself, its nanoscale channels act like filters, regulating how much silver is released.

Researchers at the University of Manchester’s National Graphene Institute, in collaboration with medical technology company T. J. Smith and Nephew Limited, have developed a new type of antimicrobial coating that could improve hygiene across healthcare, consumer, and industrial products. Silver has long been used to fight bacteria, particularly in wound care, because of its ability to release ions that damage bacterial cells. But current approaches suffer from several downsides: silver can be released too quickly or unevenly, it may damage surrounding healthy tissue, and it’s often used in quantities that aren’t sustainable. The team tackled these issues by designing a graphene oxide-based membrane that can release silver ions slowly and precisely over time. The key lies in the structure of the membrane itself, its nanoscale channels act like filters, regulating how much silver is released.

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