Intriguing anti-superbug Cu₂O@ZrP hybrid nanosheet with enhanced antibacterial performance and weak cytotoxicity

In view of it's strong antibacterial function and minor toxicity, cuprous oxide (Cu₂O) is frequently used in various broad-spectrum antibacterial reagents. Nonetheless the undesirable effects of superbugs still remain challenging. In this research, a chemical deposition approach is used to prepare a Cu₂O@ZrP composite with nanosheet configuration demonstrating excellent dispersibility and antibacterial traits. From systematic analysis, it was inffered that the content of copper in the nanosheet was about 57–188 mg/g while the average thickness of the nanosheets Cu₂O formed on ZrP is approximately 0.8 nm. The results of the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) revealed that an extremely low loading of Cu₂O in Cu₂O@ZrP nanosheet can lead to exceptional antibacterial activity. Examined on two various superbugs; i.e. methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococcus (VRE), the composite nanosheet reagent performed over 99% microbial reduction. More intesetingly, the cell growth rate of the Cu₂O@ZrP nanosheet was determined to be 20% lower than that of the neat Cu₂O, manifesting a weaker cytotoxicity. This unique hybrid nanosheet with intriguing anti-superbug performance promises highly efficient protection for the fabrics, battledress, and medical textiles.