Surface Engineering of AgNPs-Decorated Polyetheretherketone.

Metal nanostructure-treated polymers are widely recognized as the key material responsible for a specific antibacterial response in medical-based applications. However, the finding of an optimal bactericidal effect in combination with an acceptable level of cytotoxicity, which is typical for metal nanostructures, prevents their expansion from being more significant so far. This study explores the possibility of firmly anchoring silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) into polyetherether ketone (PEEK) with a tailored surface morphology that exhibits laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS).

Optomechanical Processing of Silver Colloids: New Generation of Nanoparticle-Polymer Composites with Bactericidal Effect.

The properties of materials at the nanoscale open up new methodologies for engineering prospective materials usable in high-end applications. The preparation of composite materials with a high content of an active component on their surface is one of the current challenges of materials engineering. This concept significantly increases the efficiency of heterogeneous processes moderated by the active component, typically in biological applications, catalysis, or drug delivery.