| Abstract Scope |
This study investigates the antibacterial efficacy of copper alloys with varying concentrations of alloying elements (Zn, Al, Sn, and Ni) at 6, 8, and 10 wt%. The primary objective is to assess whether these elements influence the antibacterial activity of copper alloys and to quantify their impact on the killing rate of bacteria. Alloys are synthesized using mechanical alloying with a Spex 8000D mill, ensuring homogeneous distribution of the elements through repeated welding, fracturing, and re-welding of elemental powders. The morphological, structural, and antimicrobial properties of the alloys are examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and antimicrobial testing. The study aims to generate empirical fits illustrating the relationship between the concentrations of alloying elements and the antibacterial efficacy of the copper alloys. The expected outcome is to establish a clear correlation that will inform the development of antibacterial materials. |