Antimicrobial coating platform for broad translational surface protection
A versatile surface coating platform designed to turn potentially any surface (including metals, plastics, polymers, etc.) into an antimicrobial barrier. Its mild processing conditions, excellent scalability, and tunable functionality make it attractive across a wide range of industrial domains.
Situation before
Bacterial biofilm formation is a major challenge in healthcare, food processing, and other industrial settings. Device-associated infections, contaminated equipment, and industrial biofouling result in substantial costs, safety concerns, and reduced performance. Commercially available antimicrobial hydrogel coatings are scarce, often require toxic reagents to develop, involve complex manufacturing processes, and lack long-term durability under real-world conditions. Additionally, many are difficult to apply to diverse substrates and offer limited tunability, while biocompatibility requirements further restrict their use, creating a need for safer, scalable, and more versatile surface technologies.
Technology
The LMPH has developed a versatile antimicrobial coating platform designed for application on a wide range of materials, including metals, polymers, and silicone-based surfaces. The technology is produced through a simple, scalable manufacturing process that avoids organic solvents and hazardous chemicals. A key advantage is its high degree of tunability, allowing control over mechanical properties, hydration, surface interactions, active compound release, and durability to meet specific application requirements. The platform can be adapted for both passive and active surface protection strategies and has demonstrated excellent biocompatibility, making it suitable for diverse healthcare, industrial, and consumer applications.
Partners we search for
We are seeking industrial partners across sectors for co-development and application-specific validation of this technology, with the aim of accelerating market translation. Collaborations with both large companies and innovation-driven SMEs are welcome to explore tailored surface solutions.
About the researchers/research group
The Laboratory of Parasitology, Microbiology and Hygiene (LMPH) at the University of Antwerp has extensive expertise in antimicrobial research, biomaterials, surface functionalization, and translational microbiology. The group is led by Prof. Paul Cos and has a strong track record in developing and validating antimicrobial strategies with direct industrial relevance.
More information
University of Antwerp
Valorisation Office
Middelheimlaan 1
2020 Antwerpen