Dual‐Functional Anti‐Pathogen Coatings

Abstract A dual‐functional anti‐pathogenic coating with controllable repelling and capturing/inactivation of pathogens, which make it capable of eliminating a broad range of pathogenic bacteria and viruses, including SARS‐CoV‐2, is reported. The reversible switch between repelling and capturing/inactivation is readily made via its CO₂‐responsive wettability. In its superhydrophobic state, the coating enables a SARS‐CoV‐2 repellent efficacy of 99.9997%. In its superhydrophilic state, the coating has a virucidal efficacy of up to 99.9897%, which is comparable to the inactivation rate of chemical disinfectants. The coating is highly flexible with anti‐corrosive and anti‐frosting properties, which works for repelling essentially all pathogens and potentially could be applied into various daily used products and materials. The coating has the potential to set a new prevention standard in fighting the current pandemic and preventing future ones via especially intercepting the transmission of pathogens through contaminated surfaces.