Copper, Zinc, and Titanium‐Based Semiconductor Nanomaterials for Antimicrobial Coatings and Their Mechanisms

Abstract

Throughout the course of human civilization, numerous disease outbreaks have caused major impacts by affecting the lives of mankind. Currently, excessive and improper use of antimicrobials has led to the emergence of drug‐resistant pathogens, making Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) a critical global threat, as recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). If left unaddressed, it will cost approximately USD 100 trillion to the world economy by 2050. Therefore, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising field, offering a wide range of nanomaterials that can be effectively utilized to combat microorganisms. Among these materials, semiconductor nanomaterials (SNMs) have attracted significant attention owing to their exceptional inherent properties that can be effectively employed. Currently, hospital‐acquired infections and infections associated with medical devices pose substantial risks to patients. Consequently, researchers have explored the application of SNMs in the form of antimicrobial coatings or surfaces. This review presents a comprehensive and recent investigation of widely studied SNMs, such as titanium, zinc, and copper‐based, for coating various surfaces (glass, stainless steel, medical devices, textiles, and polymers) and their antimicrobial effects. By preventing or eradicating microbial growth, SNMs have the potential to exert a positive impact, offering a viable solution for coating essential and industrial surfaces.