Atomically dispersed zirconium ion graphitic carbon nitride/cuprous oxide nanocomposite as an effective catalyst for biofilm disruption

Biofilm-associated infections have become one of the major clinical challenges, demanding the development of effective and biocompatible antimicrobial materials. This study provides a straightforward synthesis approach of zirconium-dispersed carbon nitride/cuprous oxide (Zr-CN/Cu) nanocomposite using thermal pyrolysis and ultrasonication methods. The nanocomposite combines the high surface area of carbon nitride, the antimicrobial activity of Cu, and the catalytic efficiency of atomically dispersed Zr ions for enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The Zr-CN/Cu nanocomposite showed a 3-log reduction in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) biofilms and a 1-log reduction in Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms on surfaces. On the other hand, coated polyester (PEL) and cotton fabrics demonstrated a 4-log (MRSA) and 3.5-log (P. aeruginosa) reduction on PEL, and a 3.85-log (MRSA) and 2.75-log (P. aeruginosa) reduction on cotton. These findings depict the nanocomposite's strong antibiofilm performance, attributed to synergistic effects between Cu and Zr-CN and improved substrate hydrophilicity. The findings displayed Zr-CN/Cu as a promising antimicrobial catalyst for biofilm-related infections in clinical settings.