Cyclized/knotted Polydivinylbenzene (PDVB) antibacterial coatings

In the medical industry, minimizing biofouling is of utmost importance as it helps to reduce bacterial adhesion and prevent cross-infection. In this study, cyclized/knotted polydivinylbenzene (PDVB), a polymer with distinctive structural features, is proposed for the first time to be utilized in the preparation of antibacterial coatings . Firstly, cyclized/knotted polydivinylbenzene (PDVB) is synthesized via deactivation-enhanced atom transfer radical polymerization (DE-ATRP). Subsequently, it is processed into coatings by employing the “grafting to” method. The obtained PDVB coatings display remarkable antibacterial activity on both glass and titanium alloy substrates owing to their unique cyclized/knotted structure, effectively inhibiting the proliferation of common pathogenic bacteria . Additionally, the coatings also exhibit excellent hydrophobicity , strong adhesion , and superior thermal stability . These research findings suggest that cyclized/knotted PDVB coatings possess outstanding physicochemical properties and demonstrate powerful antibacterial performance. It is anticipated to open up new avenues for antibacterial materials. • The one-pot DE-ATRP method was used to synthesize poly(divinylbenzene) with a cyclized structure. • The poly(divinylbenzene) coating exhibited anti-adhesive effects against both E. coli and S. aureus . • This coating features excellent performance, biocompatibility, and suitability for medical device surfaces.