Evaluating silver nanoparticles, copper coatings, and zinc oxide nanostructures for antimicrobial medical device applications

The increase in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) associated with medical devices underscores the need for antimicrobial coatings. This study aims to compare the antimicrobial efficacy, biocompatibility, ion release, and durability of silver nanoparticles, copper coatings, and zinc oxide nanostructures as coatings for medical devices. Coatings were prepared and characterized, with efficacy tested against E. coli and S. aureus via inhibition zone measurements. Silver demonstrated the highest antimicrobial effect, with inhibition zones averaging 90%, while copper and zinc oxide showed moderate efficacy, averaging 80% and 70%, respectively. Biocompatibility, assessed using human fibroblasts in an MTT assay, showed the highest cell viability with zinc oxide, followed by copper and silver. Durability tests under simulated physiological conditions indicated that copper and zinc oxide retained over 90% structural integrity, while silver showed greater degradation. Ion release profiles highlighted silver's rapid ion release, ideal for short-term antimicrobial activity, while copper and zinc oxide showed steady, sustained ion release. These findings suggest silver's efficacy for immediate infection control, while copper and zinc oxide offer balanced long-term safety and durability, making them suitable for extended applications in medical devices.