Antibacterial coatings fabricated from essential oil components via plasma processing

Polymers used in environmental and biomedical applications (e.g., filtration membranes and wound dressings) have surface properties that limit their biocompatibility and performance in biological settings. Such limitations arise from material hydrophobicity and propensity for bacterial attachment, leading to infection and device failure. Here, plasma processing is used to deposit films derived from essential-oil derived compounds. Surface characterization and performance testing reveals deposited films are anti-fouling and have controllable surface properties. As the use of polymers is widespread in biomedical devices and water treatment, such tunability allows for development of advanced naturally-derived antibacterial coatings, potentially improving medical outcomes and water quality.CSU Ventures Drivers of Innovation - Platinum award