Chemical, Mechanical, and Antibacterial Properties of Silver Nanocluster–Silica Composite Coatings Obtained by Sputtering

Abstract Silver nanocluster–silica matrix composite coatings have been deposited by radio frequency (RF) co‐sputtering on silica substrates. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction spectra of the as deposited and heated samples (150–600 °C) revealed the presence of metal silver nanoclusters, their size depending on the heating treatment. The antibacterial activity of the as deposited and heated samples has been measured in accordance to National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards, and it has been demonstrated on samples heated up to 450 °C in contact mode and for samples heated at 600 °C in a liquid environment. Their antibacterial activity was still present after gamma ray and ethylene oxide gas (EtO) sterilization of the samples. Silver leaching tests on the as deposited and heated samples has been measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer, revealing an amount ranging from 0.1 to 0.9 µg mm⁻², over 28 days. Tape resistance (ASTM D3359‐97) and scratch resistance tests have been done on each sample revealing a good adhesion of the coatings on silica.