Visible Light-Driven Photocatalysis and Antibacterial Performance of a Cu-TiO Nanocomposite.

A Cu-TiO nanomaterial with unique antibacterial and photocatalytic properties is introduced in this study. Cu-TiO nanocomposites were obtained using an adapted direct current magnetron sputtering apparatus, where TiO anatase nanoparticles (NPs) were used as the substrates and copper as the sputtering target. The obtained powder was characterized by physical and chemical methods.

Light, Copper, Action: Visible-Light Illumination Enhances Bactericidal Activity of Copper Particles.

Bacteria are an old concern to human health, as they are responsible for nosocomial infections, and the number of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms keeps growing. Copper is known for its intrinsic biocidal properties, and therefore, it is a promising material to combat infections when added to surfaces. However, its biocidal properties in the presence of light illumination have not been fully explored, especially regarding the use of microsized particles since nanoparticles have taken over all fields of research and subjugated microparticles despite them being abundant and less expensive.