Controlling the adhesion of bacteria via a combination of fibre treatment and surface functionalization.

 

Antiadhesive surface coatings that prevent the attachment of proteins, bacteria, fungi and higher organisms are promising alternatives to the use of traditional biocides. In this context, surfaces decorated with polyethlylene glycol (PEG) or zwitterions (betaines), respectively, proved to be highly effective for this purpose. In both cases, the resulting strongly hydrated surfaces are able to reduce the adhesion of proteins, bacteria and fungi efficiently. Because PEG is degraded oxidatively in the presence of light, however, zwitterionic surfaces are more promising targets for applications in the textile sector.
Accordingly, the generation of microstructured surfaces with zwitterionic surface groups on textiles and the investigation of their interplay will be the main focus of the current project.

 

Specific requirements

• Background in synthetic polymer chemistry or physical chemistry
• Aptitude towards synthesis and physical testing

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For further information please contact:
Prof. Jochen Gutmann, jochen.gutmann@dtnw.de

German North West Textile Research Centre (e.V.), Krefeld, Germany

 

Position closed