A Visible Light-Induced and ROS-Dependent Method for the Rapid Formation of a MOF Composite Membrane with Antibacterial Properties

The diverse application potential of metal-organic framework (MOF) materials are currently limited by their challenging and complicated preparation processes. In this study, we successfully developed a novel strategy for the rapid synthesis of a sustainable MOF composite membrane under neutral conditions with improved physicochemical and antibacterial properties. Our reaction pipeline comprised visible light that induced the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from ZIF-8 particles, which facilitated the rapid oxidative polymerization of dopamine to polydopamine. The physicochemical properties of the composite membrane were assessed using imaging methods, including scanning and transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectrometry, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption; its antibacterial effects against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were measured using optical densitometry. The bactericidal potency of the synthesized membrane was >99% against all tested strains under the conditions of simulated sunlight. Moreover, the composite membrane retained its structural integrity and antibacterial effect after multiple cycles of use and recovery, showcasing remarkable stability. Overall, this study displays a ROS-mediated method for the rapid preparation of sustainable MOF composite membranes under neutral conditions with optimal physicochemical characteristics, antibacterial properties, and performance. Our study provides insights into the use of membrane materials as design platforms for a range of diverse practical applications.