A hydrophilic nanocomposite coating with enhanced durability and antifouling properties

The adhesion of bacteria to surfaces and the resulting biofilm pose significant risks to human health care services, food packaging and storage, and the marine industry. There is an urgent need to develop efficient antimicrobial surfaces to prevent bacterial adhesion, kill adherent bacteria, and prevent/disrupt biofilm formation. More recently, hydrophilic antimicrobial coatings have gained recognition as a highly efficacious material that possesses robust resistance to infection by preventing microbial accumulation and effectively eradicating microorganisms. However, the intricate fabrication processes, subpar mechanical properties, and inadequate weather resistance limit their practical applicability. Herein, we successfully fabricate a highly durable organic-inorganic hybrid hydrophilic nanocoating using compound silicates, silver nitrate, and TEGO Addibit EK50 through a one-pot method. The results reveal that the transparent coating exhibits remarkable hydrophilicity and outstanding antifouling performance, and their performance does not appreciably decline following 2000 friction and weather resistance tests. Additionally, the coating possesses a sterilization efficiency of 99% within 15 minutes, exhibiting strong sterilization ability. Cell toxicity assessments further attest to the outstanding biocompatibility and biological safety of the coating, further supporting its potential application in diverse settings. This research paves the way for the development of advanced functional coatings with enhanced performance and applicability.Graphical AbstractThe highly durable hydrophilic hybrid nanocoating prepared by a one-pot method exhibits remarkable hydrophilicity and antibacterial properties, as well as exceptional antifouling performance. Hydrophilic antibacterial coatings (HACs) were prepared through a one-pot method.Nanosilica resin plays an important role in the physicochemical properties of HAC.HAC possesses exceptional transparency and antibacterial and anti-fouling properties.HAC exhibits unparalleled durability and weather resistance.