Micro-structured P-N junction surfaces: large-scale preparation, antifouling properties, and a synergistic antibacterial mechanism

J Mater Chem B. 2023 Feb 8;11(6):1312-1319. doi: 10.1039/d2tb02258c.

Abstract

Constructing an antifouling surface cost-effectively is vitally important for many applications. Herein, a series of silicon substrates with micro-pyramid structures and p-n junctions were fabricated following a simple industrial processing flow, among which the p+n-Si substrate, fabricated through boron doping of a micro-pyramid structured n-type silicon wafer, exhibited the most pronounced antibacterial performance. Broad-spectrum bactericidal and bacteriostatic activity of p+n-Si under ambient light illumination was observed, with an inhibition ability of 73-100% compared to that of a bare glass against both airborne and contact-transmitted bacteria in the intensive care unit. The synergetic effect of mechanical rupture and electric injury was supposed to be responsible for the potent antibacterial activity. This work proposes a state-of-the-art concept that p-n junctions enhance the anti-infection ability of micro-structured surfaces and provide a promising strategy for fabricating practical antifouling surfaces with a large-size, a facile manufacturing procedure, and gentle working conditions, as well as broad-spectrum and physical antibacterial mechanisms.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / chemistry
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / pharmacology
  • Bacteria
  • Biofouling* / prevention & control
  • Silicon / pharmacology
  • Surface Properties

Substances

  • Silicon
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents