The UK's National Graphene Institute has developed an innovative antibacterial coating technology, with results published in the journal Small. This technology, co-developed by Professor Rahul R. Nair's team in collaboration with medical technology company Smith & Nephew, utilizes graphene oxide membranes to control the release of silver ions, providing a new solution for hygiene protection in medical products.

Traditional antibacterial silver coatings suffer from uneven release and unsustainable dosage issues. The research team designed graphene oxide membranes with nanochannels to achieve precise slow release of silver ions. Professor Nair stated: "This technology represents a major advancement in antibacterial coatings; we have developed a new method that sustains antibacterial effects over time."

The study used fetal bovine serum to simulate in vivo conditions for testing, confirming the coating's long-term protective effects. First author Dr. Swathi Suran noted: "This technology can be applied to products such as wound dressings and medical implants, bringing long-term benefits to patients and healthcare institutions." The team is currently exploring the promotion of this coating technology to more medical and everyday products.