Utilization of Hexadecylamine-SWCNT Functionalization and Thiol-Ene “Click Chemistry” to Inhibit Bacterial Biofilm on Polydimethylsiloxane

Author

Nicole M. Wadlin, Ursinus CollegeFollow

Submission Date

7-18-2025

Document Type

Paper- Restricted to Campus Access

Department

Chemistry

Faculty Mentor

Mark Ellison

Comments

Presented during the 27th Annual Summer Fellows Symposium, July 18, 2025 at Ursinus College.

Project Description

Silicone-based materials, such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), are a widely used material within the healthcare industry due to their biocompatibility and flexibility. However, due to their chemically inert nature, bacterial biofilm formation is a frequent occurrence, which in turn attributes to high rates of device-associated bacterial infections, specifically within a clinical setting. As a hope to combat these infections without the presence of antibiotics, this project aimed to utilize single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and their hydrophobic properties to inhibit biofilm formation. Additionally, as a potentially more effective approach, we implemented SWCNT functionalization via hexadecylamine attachment, as well as thiol-ene click chemistry, which can covalently attach oleylamine-functionalized SWNTs to modified PDMS surfaces.

Recommended Citation

Wadlin, Nicole M., "Utilization of Hexadecylamine-SWCNT Functionalization and Thiol-Ene “Click Chemistry” to Inhibit Bacterial Biofilm on Polydimethylsiloxane" (2025). Chemistry Summer Fellows. 61.
https://digitalcommons.ursinus.edu/chem_sum/61