Synergistic integration of copper-functionalization and smart release mechanisms for enhanced bacterial inactivation on polyethersulfone membranes

In this research, we describe the development of smart polyethersulfone (PES) membranes with superior antibacterial and antiadhesion properties. The strategy involved incorporating thermo-responsive polymers and copper oxide nanoparticles onto the membrane surface, which has not been previously reported. The study examined the surface and chemical characteristics of the membranes and discovered that the PNIPAm and P(NIPAm-co-AAm) brushes as well as copper oxide nanoparticles were successfully attached to the PES membrane surface. The antibacterial and release capabilities of the membranes were assessed against both gram-negative (E. coli) and positive (B. cereus) bacteria. The results indicate that while hydrophilicity and surface charge are relevant factors, they are not sufficient indicators for the antibacterial performance of a membrane. Instead, the biocidal properties of the surface materials were found to be critical in determining the antibacterial efficacy of the membrane. It has been observed that the method of killing bacteria that are attached to the membrane surface is more successful than the anti-adhesion approach, which aims to stop bacteria from attaching. The best biofouling reduction was observed in a dual-functionalized membrane with both effective antibacterial properties and additional anti-adhesion functionality. This work presents a promising solution to combat bacterial growth on surfaces and reduce feed pathogenicity during separation.