New Chemical-Free, Anti-Bacterial Plastic 'Skins' Inspired by Dolphin Skin

Taking inspriation from animals like dolphins and pilot whales that are known to have anti-fouling skins, researchers are using nanotechnology to create synthetic, chemical-free, anti-bacterial surfaces. The surfaces can reduce infections caused by pathogens such as S. aureus and E. coli and can be used on common plastics, medical devices, lenses and even ship hulls.

Nanoimprint technology, a form of nanotechnology, is a simple technique to make complex nanometer-sized patterns on surfaces to mimic the texture of natural surfaces. This gives the engineered material 'natural' properties such as luminescence, adhesiveness, water-proofing and anti-reflectivity.

"Chemical additives in biomedical devices can adversely affect different users in different ways. The anti-microbial surfaces derived from nanoimprint technology without the need for additional chemicals and coatings may offer us an alternative solution to this issue," said Mr Tsuyoshi Watanabe.

Source:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/12/101228094106.htm