Evaluation of graphene as an antimicrobial additive in surface coatings

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The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted lives of one and all. As countries, industries and general public begin to enter a phase of recovery, perhaps the most relevant lesson is in the ever-increasing role of material surfaces in virus transmission. One of the most accepted mechanisms of the virus transmission is through surfaces of various materials that humans are exposed in everyday life. While it is imperative to find solutions that inhibit the spread of Covid-19, the current pandemic has opened up a wider discussion and need on antimicrobial surfaces that inhibit fungi, bacteria and viruses from growing on surfaces. Nano-sized materials, such as titanium dioxide, silver, copper and more recently graphene and carbon nanotubes, have been widely studied to provide evidence of their antimicrobial properties. Use of metal additives in coatings has often been a cause of concern with respect to environmental sustainability. For example in marine industry, additives like tin and copper for antimicrobial/anti fouling coatings have face stiff opposition from environmental legislation. This has led to a preference for organic additives. Studies have shown that graphene's sharp edges disrupt the cellular membrane, its high electron mobility can extract electrons from the molecules thereby oxidising/poisoning microbes while its lubricating nature could help create a low friction surface reducing the tendency of microbes to adhere. In this feasibility study, Talga aims to explore the antimicrobial properties of coatings containing graphene. The program addresses value addition and efficient use of natural resources, in line with the government's clean growth strategy.