Scientists at Tver University have developed a technique to produce a new generation of antibacterial copper coatings on stainless steel surfaces, using 3D laser printing and computer modeling.
Russia has developed coatings that eliminate dangerous bacteria within an hour.
Russia has developed a rust- and corrosion-resistant coating made from chromium carbide.
The university's media office indicated that these coatings completely eliminate harmful bacteria within one hour of contact with the surface.
A source at the university said: "These coatings can be used in the fields of medicine, transportation and public places to combat the spread of harmful bacteria. Surfaces that people touch daily — such as handrails, door handles and medical equipment — are major sources of infection. Copper has long been known for its antimicrobial properties, but traditional methods of producing copper coatings are expensive and may weaken the mechanical properties of equipment."
The new innovation is based on laser metal powder fusing (L-PBF) technology , which allows for the precise "melting" of copper onto the surface of 304 stainless steel, ensuring economical material consumption, high coating adhesion, and a defect-free environment.
According to the source, the integration of additive manufacturing techniques and computer modeling opens new horizons for the creation of functional materials with predefined properties, and demonstrates how basic and applied research can lead to practical solutions in the field of health and safety.
During the study, the researchers completed a full research cycle, from 3D printing and microstructure analysis to molecular dynamics modeling, and proved that when heated and cooled ultra-fast, copper spreads on the surface of steel, forming what are known as "copper islands," which have a clear antibacterial effect.
Biological tests confirmed the effectiveness of the innovative coatings, as Escherichia coli and Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria were completely eliminated within one hour of contact with the surface.
Dmitry Bespalov , acting rector of Tver University, said : "These results allow for a significant reduction in copper consumption compared to traditional spraying methods, while achieving maximum antibacterial effectiveness. These coatings can form the basis for creating self-cleaning and sterilizing surfaces."
The source added that the innovative technology allows for the modification of existing metal products, and can be used to produce coatings with additional properties, such as increased corrosion resistance and biocompatibility
