New antibacterial coating punctures bacteria before biofilms form

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed an innovative antibacterial coating that physically punctures bacteria before they can form biofilms, a protective slime layer that makes bacteria harder to remove and contributes to hospital infections and industrial problems. This new method uses metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), a material recognized by the 2025 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, arranged as nanostructures sharp enough to rupture bacterial cells on contact. Unlike traditional antibacterial approaches relying on antibiotics or toxic metals, this technique kills bacteria mechanically, eliminating risks such as antibiotic resistance and environmental harm. The coating’s effectiveness depends on precisely engineered spacing between the nanospikes: too wide allows bacteria to settle, while too narrow reduces pressure and lets microbes survive. This purely mechanical action avoids chemical release and can be applied to various materials, including those used in medical devices. The technology is compatible with temperature-sensitive plastics and potentially recyclable materials, enabling large-scale industrial production. The researchers believe this coating could reduce hospital infections, decrease the use of harmful