Multifunctional Nanocomposite Plasma Coatings: Enabling New Biomaterials Applications

摘要

Due to the increasing prevalence of resistance of bacteria to antibiotics and antiseptic methods, new strategies to prevent colonization of biomaterials are needed. Due to its high antimicrobial activity and relatively low toxicity to human cells, we are evaluating silver (Ag) releasing plasma polymers as a strategy to prevent bacterial colonization. Such Ag/plasma polymer nanocomposite materials, consisting of nano-scaled metal clusters embedded within a plasma-polymer matrix can be deposited using a mixed, plasma polymerization /sputtering process. For example, Ag containing plasma polymer nanocomposites are deposited employing an Ag cathode, an appropriate monomer to yield the desired material properties of the matrix (biocompatibility) and an asymmetric reactor design.