Antibacterial performance of a copper nanoparticle thin film

The prevalence of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus has led to an increased focus on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in the community and hospitals. An inherently antibacterial thin film is reported to combat the transmission of microbes on glass surfaces that could be accessed by the public, reducing the need for constant cleaning. The copper nanoparticle thin film is synthesized via a sol–gel method and deposited using a dip‐coater to create a transparent, rugged film resistant to scratching. The antibacterial performance is tested by a droplet and an aerosol deposition technique, where Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus are sprayed directly onto the thin film, replicating coughs and sneezes: a common form of microbial transmission. The mechanism of antibacterial performance is studied by introducing reactive oxygen species quenchers to the thin film. This research presents copper nanoparticle thin films as an effective solution in reducing the transmission of microbes on glass surfaces and their potential as a valuable tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.