Mechanical and Tribological Properties of Ag/TiBx Nanocomposite Thin Films with Strong Antibacterial Effect Prepared by Magnetron Co-Sputtering

The use of silver-based antimicrobial materials has been growing recently. Considering the threat developing silver-resistant bacteria, it is essential to address endurance such and amount silver released into environment. Here we report on a durable, antibacterial Ag/TiBx nanocomposite coating prepared by conventional magnetron sputtering. consists fine Ag clusters embedded in extremely hard, wear-resistant overstoichiometric TiBx, which serves as protective matrix. highest E. coli growth inhibition 97% observed for containing 24 at.% Ag. A strong effect also maintained after 45 days immersion Luria–Bertani + 5% HNO3 solution. Despite marked hardness decrease from 40 GPa TiBx 6.4 with 28 Ag, maintains good specific wear rate 6 × 10−5 mm3/Nm. Moreover, addition acts solid lubricant, decreases coefficient friction 0.77 0.35, even at room temperature. Thanks combination properties enhanced resistance, material can find application cutlery, door handles, water taps, other daily-used objects public areas.