Rationally designed magnetic poly(catechol-hexanediamine) particles for bacteria removal and on-demand biofilm eradication

In this study, we proposed a green, facile and low-cost approach for the fabrication of multifunctional particles with robust bacteria removal capability and on-demand biofilm eradication activity. Based on mussel-inspired coating of catechol and hexanediamine on Fe3O4 in aqueous solution, magnetic poly(catechol-hexanediamine) particles (Fe3O4@HDA) were prepared successfully in 1 h, at room temperature. Microbiological experiments demonstrated the Fe3O4@HDA particles could capture bacteria in water efficiently. Meanwhile, with an integration of magnetic response property and near-infrared-triggered photothermal bactericidal activity, the Fe3O4@HDA particles showed a high potential for biofilm targeting and in-situ eradication. We believe that the rationally designed magnetic poly(catechol-hexanediamine) particles could extend the applications of smart antimicrobial agents to industrial fields such as water disinfection and biofouling clean-up.