Antibacterial and biocompatible ABA-triblock copolymers containing perfluoropolyether and plant-based cardanol for versatile coating applications

ABA-triblock copolymers (PHCPMF#s, where # is the feed ratio of a monomer to an initiator) were prepared via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), using modified perfluoropolyether (PFPE) as a macroinitiator (Br–PFPE–Br) to form the B block, and 2-hydroxy-3-cardanylpropyl methacrylate (HCPM) as a monomer to form the A blocks. Physically stable and transparent cross-linked PHCPMF# (C-PHCPMF#) films could be prepared on a silicon wafer using spin coating, followed by UV irradiation to form the cross-linked structure. C-PHCPMF# showed bactericidal properties and bacterial adhesion resistance. The bacterial adhesion resistance of the PHCPMF# films was found to closely correlate with the low surface energy and water contact angle hysteresis. In particular, the C-PHCPMF5 film, containing about two HCPM units in the A block, shows excellent biocidal/bacterial adhesion resistance and cell viability because it has an optimum amount of biocidal HCPM units, and a sufficient amount of biocompatible PFPE units to impart a low surface energy.