In this insightful episode, we sit down with renowned scientist Dr. Spontak, whose pioneering work has aimed at combating the worldwide threat of drug-resistant microbes, a threat that intensifies the risk of deadly hospital-acquired infections. Dr. Spontak shares his research about the development of charged multiblock polymers with a selectively sulfonated midblock.

Dr. Spontak's groundbreaking work demonstrates that these polymers, which are hydrophilic and water-swellable, inherently provide self-sterilizing surfaces that act rapidly against a wide range of bacteria, including three antibiotic-resistant types. Remarkably, these polymers are capable of killing over 99.9999% of these harmful organisms in just 5 minutes.

We discuss the importance of this research for a variety of applications, including biomedical applications, smart textiles, separation membranes, commodity fixtures, and food packaging. In addition, we explore the mechanism behind this antimicrobial efficacy, the role of the midblock sulfonation, and how the polymers can be rejuvenated after exposure to electrolyte solutions.

This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the science of antimicrobial materials and the global challenge of combating drug-resistant microbes. Join us as we delve into this promising and inexpensive solution to a global healthcare threat.

Keywords: Drug-Resistant Microbes, Antimicrobial Materials, Healthcare, Infections, Multiblock Polymers, Sulfonation, Self-Sterilizing Surfaces, Dr. Spontak.

DOI: 10.1039/c9mh00726a Inherently self-sterilizing charged multiblock polymers that kill drug-resistant microbes in minutes