C. Balagna
Politecnico di Torino,
Italy
Keywords: antimicrobial coatings, virucidal, high traffic objects
Summary:
The rising prevalence of antimicrobial resistance and the global impact of viral outbreaks have underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions to mitigate pathogen transmission. Advanced antimicrobial and virucidal composite coatings represent a promising frontier, combining cutting-edge material science with practical applications in healthcare, public safety, air filtration systems, and beyond. This presentation will explore the development, mechanisms, and industrial relevance of these coatings. Antimicrobial and virucidal coatings are engineered to inhibit the growth and spread of pathogens on surfaces, offering a critical layer of defense in environments prone to contamination. Traditional coatings often rely on passive mechanisms, such as hydrophobicity or surface smoothness, to reduce microbial adhesion. However, advancements in nanotechnology, material science, and bioengineering have enabled the design of active composite coatings capable of directly neutralizing pathogens through chemical, physical, or biological means. Examples include coatings embedded with nanoparticles (e.g., silver, copper, or zinc oxide), bioactive polymers, enzymatic agents that disrupt microbial cell walls and viral envelopes, or nanoceramic coatings with metallic nanoclusters designed for high traffic objects and surfaces and air filtration systems. This presentation will delve into the science underpinning these materials, highlighting the synergistic effects achieved by integrating multiple antimicrobial and virucidal agents into a single coating, including the innovative use of silica-zirconia coatings with silver nanoclusters. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of durability, scalability, and biocompatibility in real-world applications. For instance, coatings designed for medical implants must balance antimicrobial efficacy with compatibility to avoid adverse host responses, while those for high-touch surfaces in public spaces must withstand mechanical wear and environmental exposure. In the context of tissue engineering and disease modeling, antimicrobial and virucidal coatings are emerging as pivotal tools, while also demonstrating significant potential for broader applications such as air filtration systems. In vitro models of infection and disease can benefit from coatings that selectively control microbial populations, enabling more accurate simulation of physiological conditions. Similarly, coatings applied to scaffolds or biomaterials in tissue engineering can prevent infection-related complications, thereby enhancing the viability and integration of engineered tissues. These innovations are particularly critical in the development of bioartificial organs and wound-healing applications, where the risk of infection poses significant challenges. From an industry perspective, the commercialization of antimicrobial and virucidal coatings requires a focus on cost-effective manufacturing and regulatory compliance. This keynote will discuss strategies for bridging the gap between laboratory research and industrial production, including methods for scaling up synthesis processes, ensuring environmental sustainability, and meeting stringent safety standards. Case studies of successful collaborations between academia and industry will illustrate how these coatings are being deployed in healthcare, transportation, and consumer products.