Mechanically Switchable Biocide Plasma‐Polymer Coatings for Biomaterials

Abstract Silver nanoparticles are enclosed between two plasma‐polymer layers. We show that the second cross‐linked plasma‐polymer network acts as a barrier and significantly reduces the delivery of the silver nanoparticles into a surrounding aqueous environment. When the film is stretched, cracks appear in the plasma‐polymer layer, which allow an increase in the release of the silver. When the system returns to its initial length, the release is reduced because of the cracks' closure. The principle is described and the release of silver is evaluated under mechanical stimuli cycles. The antibacterial effect is stopped by the barrier of the plasma‐polymer layer but restored by stretching the coated material.