Intriguing anti-superbug Cu2O@ZrP hybrid nanosheet with enhanced antibacterial performance and weak cytotoxicity

In view of it’s strong antibacterial function and minor toxicity, cuprous oxide (Cu2O) is frequently used in various broad-spectrum antibacterial reagents. Nonetheless the undesirable effects of superbugs still remain challenging. In this research, a chemical deposition approach is used to prepare a Cu2O@ZrP composite with nanosheet configuration demonstrating excellent dispersibility and antibacterial traits. From systematic analysis, it was inffered that the content of copper in the nanosheet was about 57–188 mg/g while the average thickness of the nanosheets Cu2O formed on ZrP is approximately 0.8 nm. The results of the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) revealed that an extremely low loading of Cu2O in Cu2O@ZrP nanosheet can lead to exceptional antibacterial activity. Examined on two various superbugs; i.e. methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE), the composite nanosheet reagent performed over 99% microbial reduction. More intesetingly, the cell growth rate of the Cu2O@ZrP nanosheet was determined to be 20% lower than that of the neat Cu2O, manifesting a weaker cytotoxicity. This unique hybrid nanosheet with intriguing anti-superbug performance promises highly efficient protection for the fabrics, battledress, and medical textiles.