Charged laser-induced graphene electrodes exhibit strong capacitance-based antibacterial and antiviral properties

The demand for antibacterial and antiviral platforms with a broad range of biocidal activity is increasing in modern societies. In this study, capacitance-based antibacterial and antiviral properties of graphene-based ma-terials were investigated after being charged at constant low-voltage potentials (1-2 V). A CO2 laser with different power and speed parameters was used to produce laser-induced graphene (LIG) electrodes with tunable capacitances. The charged electrodes showed high antibacterial and antiviral performance against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, as well as non-enveloped and enveloped viruses. The antibacterial effects of the electrodes directly correlated to their capacitance, and the charged LIG electrodes maintained their antibacterial effect after being stored for a week. The antiviral effect of LIGs depended on the type and magnitude of the charging potential. The novel concept of capacitance-based antibacterial and antiviral surfaces is promising in applications where sustainable and environmentally friendly, rechargeable active surfaces are required, such as air filtration, respiratory masks, and various biomedical and public surfaces.

Automated summary

The capacitance-based antibacterial and antiviral properties of graphene-based materials were investigated in this study. Laser-induced graphene (LIG) electrodes with tunable capacitances were produced using a CO2 laser. The charged LIG electrodes showed high antibacterial and antiviral performance against various bacteria and viruses. The novel concept of capacitance-based antibacterial and antiviral surfaces is promising in applications where sustainable and rechargeable active surfaces are required.