Method for coating surfaces with microparticles and nanoparticles with the aid of plasma methods

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This patent describes a novel method for coating surfaces with micro- and nanoparticles, particularly for medical devices, using a specialized plasma treatment. The process involves pre-treating the surface with plasma, applying nanoparticles, and then fixing them to the surface with anisothermal (non-thermal) plasma, allowing for adjustable strength of the chemical bond. This enables surfaces to be functionalized (e.g., with antimicrobial, drug-releasing, or cell growth-promoting properties) and provides the ability to remove or replace the coating as needed, enhancing hygiene and utility in various applications.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Antimicrobial coating of reusable medical instruments (e.g., catheters, surgical tools) to reduce risk of infection.
• Surface modification of medical implants to promote cell growth and prevent bacterial colonization.
• Applying drug-releasing coatings to medical devices for controlled delivery of pharmaceuticals (e.g., slow-release of antibiotics or steroids).
• Antimicrobial, easy-to-clean coatings for hospital surfaces such as computer keyboards, switches, handles, and protective foils.
• Improvement of wound dressings to reduce infection and enhance healing by incorporating active substances into the coating.
• Textiles or protective coverings with antimicrobial and/or functionalized surfaces for medical and hygiene applications.
• Protective coatings for equipment in environments with high risk of microbial contamination (e.g., food processing, laboratories).
• Corrosion-resistant coatings for metals and sensitive components.
• Biofunctionalization of implant surfaces for better tissue integration and longevity.
• Facilitating connections (gluing) between different materials (e.g., plastics, biopolymers) for medical device manufacturing.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables strong, customizable chemical bonding of nanoparticles to a variety of surfaces, enhancing durability of the functional coating.
• Allows for efficient, simultaneous surface sterilization and functionalization, improving workflow and avoiding damage to sensitive materials.
• Coatings can be removed and reapplied, supporting safe and effective reprocessing of reusable medical devices.
• Adjustable binding strength makes it possible to tailor the coating's permanence, supporting both temporary and permanent applications.
• Facilitates incorporation of a wide range of active substances (antibacterial, pharmaceutical, biocompatible) for diverse applications.
• Reduces microbial contamination and infection risks on medical devices and surfaces, improving patient outcomes and safety.
• Improves surface properties such as hydrophilicity, biointegration, and gliding ability (e.g., for catheters).
• Supports development of advanced drug-delivery systems integrated into medical devices.
• Non-thermal plasma process is compatible with sensitive substrates and materials that cannot withstand high temperatures.
• Wider applicability across medical, industrial, and hygienic sectors due to flexibility in coating composition and application method.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for coating surfaces with micro- and nanoparticles, the micro- and nanoparticles being chemically bonded to the surface, comprising the steps of pre-treatment of the surface with a plasma method, simultaneous or subsequent application of the micro- and nanoparticles to the surface, and subsequent fixation of the micro and nanoparticles on the surface using a plasma method, characterized in that the fixation of the micro- and nanoparticles takes place with the aid of anisothermal plasmas, the median electrical energy of which lies in the range of the bond dissociation energy of the micro- and nanoparticles, thus allowing the strength of the chemical bond between the surface and the micro- and nanoparticles to be variably set.