Graphene Control Technology Capable of Eliminating 99.9% of Surface Bacteria

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Graphene’s Powerful Antibacterial Properties: A Breakthrough in Fighting Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have developed a groundbreaking method using the magnetic technology found in common refrigerator magnets to create an ultra-thin, needle-like surface coating for medical devices like catheters and implants. This innovative graphene-based coating can kill 99.9% of bacteria on medical device surfaces. Their findings were published in the latest issue of Advanced Functional Materials.

Healthcare-associated infections are a global concern, causing significant patient suffering, high medical costs, and increased risks of antibiotic resistance. Many of these infections are linked to medical devices, such as catheters, hip and knee prosthetics, and dental implants, which allow bacteria to enter the body.

The research team had previously demonstrated that vertically aligned graphene sheets could prevent bacteria from adhering to surfaces by slicing them apart. However, they struggled to control the alignment of the graphene sheets, making it challenging to apply the technology to medical devices. Now, the team has found a way to control the orientation of graphene with high precision, in multiple directions, making it possible to integrate graphene nanosheets onto medical device surfaces, killing 99.9% of bacteria.

By arranging magnets in a circular pattern to create a linear magnetic field, the researchers induced a uniform graphene alignment, achieving highly effective bacterial killing on surfaces of any shape. This method, called the “Halbach Array,” strengthens and evens out the magnetic field within the array, while weakening it on the other side, allowing for strong directional control of graphene orientation. Interestingly, this technique mirrors the magnetic technology used in refrigerator magnets.

The researchers also see huge potential for this new technology in other fields, such as batteries, supercapacitors, sensors, and durable waterproof packaging materials.