Plasma-enhanced deposition of silver nanoparticles onto polymer and metal surfaces for the generation of antimicrobial characteristics

Silver nanoparticle thin layers were deposited onto formaldehyde-radio frequency (RF)-plasma-functionalized medical- and food-grade silicone rubber, stainless steel, and paper surfaces. The silver deposition was carried out under ex situ plasma conditions using the Tollen's reaction. Results from survey and high-resolution electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy investigations confirmed the presence of thin silver layers on the plasma-exposed and subsequently modified substrate surfaces. In addition, SEM and AFM demonstrated the nanoparticle-based morphology of the deposited layers. Our results showed that thin macromolecular layers bearing aldehyde functionalities can be deposited onto silicone rubber, stainless steel, and paper surfaces. The bactericidal properties of the silver-coated surfaces were demonstrated by exposing them to Listeria monocytogenes. No viable bacteria were detected after 12 to 18 h on silver-coated silicone rubber surfaces. (C) 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.