Laser-assisted manufacturing of a catheter with a graphene-based antibacterial surface

Purpose and goal

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) is a global problem that cause a lot of suffering, high costs for healthcare and an increased risk of the spread of antibiotic resistance. The majority of HAIs are associated with the use of invasive medical devices that are colonized by bacteria, a problem that could be reduced if the product is provided with an antibacterial surface. The goal of the project is to develop a laser-based process to create an antibacterial surface based on graphene, and to make a prototype catheter that can be used to evaluate the clinical and commercial potential.

Expected effects and result

Previous projects have demonstrated that a surface with upright graphene flakes very effectively prevents bacterial colonization. This is because the graphene flakes make it difficult for bacteria to attach to the surface and they can also puncture bacteria that try. The graphene surface has to be active against most types of bacteria including antibiotic-resistant strains and without inducing resistance as it only prevents colonization. Prototype catheters developed in this project are expected to provide answers to the clinical and commercial potential of the technology.

Planned approach and implementation

Samples with antibacterial surfaces of graphene are produced by researchers at the Mid Sweden University with support from Cobolt (WP1). The antibacterial effect and other properties of the surfaces are evaluated at Chalmers and Wellspect (WP2). The process must also be adapted for a catheter surface so that a prototype can be produced and its properties evaluated under the guidance of Wellspect (WP3). Finally, the clinical and commercial potential of the product and technology must be evaluated (WP3), and utilization and communication of the results organized (WP4).