New technology creates hard metal surfaces that kill bacteria

Food Safety News reports that researchers at Purdue University developed a treatment that infuses metal surfaces with naturally occurring antimicrobial peptides, creating surfaces that kill bacteria trying to attach to it. The technology applies primarily to food processing and cutting surfaces. The technique can reduce the risk of cross-contamination. The technology creates an oxidized metal surface with nanometer-wide and micrometer-deep cracks where antimicrobial peptides can be infused in these microscopic cracks with a simple wet process. The material stored in the cracks release over time, and the oxidation process also colors the material, which provides a visual indicator of the materials remaining antimicrobial resistance. The process works on stainless steel and titanium and can be used on a wide range of commercial metal alloys. The creators are now looking for partners to commercialize their technology. @ https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2020/08/new-technology-creates-hard-metal-surfaces-that-kill-bacteria/