Investigation of anticorrosive and antibacterial properties of electrochemically modified AISI430 steel surfaces; [Elektrokimyasal yöntem ile modifiye edilmiş AISI430 çelik yüzeylerin antikorozif ve antibakteriyel özelliklerinin incelenmesi]

Both pharmacological and material-based approaches aim to slow bacterial evolution toward resistance. In this context, imparting specific antibacterial properties to materials is essential. Traditionally, alloying was a method to equip entire metals with antibacterial features, such as incorporating small amounts of copper (Cu) and/or silver (Ag). However, due to the high cost and inherent limitations of alloying, surface modification processes have gained prominence. Recent antibacterial studies on copper have led to the application of Cu(Ag) electrochemical coatings on AISI430 steel surfaces. This study aims to combine copper’s antibacterial properties with enhanced corrosion resistance and surface hardness. The coatings were deposited using deep eutectic solvents, known for their environmentally friendly properties, followed by potentiodynamic analysis. Microstructural and phase distribution characteristics were examined through SEM-EDS analysis, while surface roughness was analyzed using profilometry. Transitioning from micro-disc electrodes to macro-scale AISI430 substrates, Cu(Ag) films containing 16% Ag demonstrated nanoscale roughness, approximately double the hardness, and superior corrosion resistance compared to conventional copper surfaces. Antibacterial tests compared the coated surfaces with untreated AISI430 steel. Results showed that Cu(Ag)-coated surfaces exhibited improved antibacterial properties. This study shows how Cu(Ag) electrochemical coatings can be used to make surfaces that are antibacterial, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion.