Mechanobactericidal Nanotopography on Nitrile Surfaces toward Antimicrobial Protective Gear

We have much to learn from other living organisms when it comes to engineering strategies to combat bacterial infections. This study describes the fabrication of cicada winginspired nanotopography on commercially pure (CP) nitrile sheets and nitrile gloves for medical use using the reactive ion etching (RIE) technique. Antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa was tested using two different surface morphologies. It was observed that the etched nitrile surfaces effectively minimized bacterial colonization by inducing membrane damage. Our findings demonstrate a single-step dry etching method for creating mechanobactericidal topographies on nitrile-based surfaces. These findings have utility in designing next-generation personal protective gear in the clinical setting and for many other important applications in the age of antimicrobial resistance.

Automated summary

This study used the reactive ion etching (RIE) technique to create cicada wing-inspired nanotopography on commercially pure (CP) nitrile sheets and nitrile gloves for medical use. The etched nitrile surfaces showed reduced bacterial colonization and membrane damage against P. aeruginosa. These findings have implications in designing next-generation personal protective gear and other important applications in the age of antimicrobial resistance.