A single-step laser fabrication approach to create antimicrobial surfaces for high-value medical devices

In response to the growing prevalence of healthcare-associated infections and the increasing resistance to antibiotics, there is an urgent need for antimicrobial-coated medical devices. Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) are widely recognised for their potent antibacterial properties, making them a prime candidate for such applications. However, current physical and chemical synthesis methods for AgNP are costly, time-consuming and pollutive. We aimed to develop a new single-step fabrication approach to generate AgNP-coated antimicrobial microstructure surfaces, using hybridising subtractive laser ablation and additive chemical deposition processes. The microstructures generated by this technique were investigated to understand their role in potentiating the antimicrobial activity of functionalised surfaces. This project provided a cost-effective and sustainable process to enhance the safety and functionality of medical devices prone to biofouling, such as surgical tools and implants.