Laser surface texturing for antiviral surfaces?

Abstract

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, especially, the transmission of the virus via infected contact surfaces, has put increased emphasis on the need to fabricate antimicrobial surfaces to protect against various deadly pathogens. Laser surface texturing (LST), one of the common surface modification techniques, has been successful for antifouling applications to improve resistance against bacterial adhesion. In this short review, we aim to explore the possibilities of using LST for fabricating surfaces against viruses. The characteristics influencing the interaction of surfaces with virus and bacteria and an overview of antibacterial surfaces created by LST are briefly described first before assessing the current limitations with LST for fabricating antiviral surfaces. Finally, we highlight the potential directions using LST to realize the nanoscale surface features necessary for antiviral surfaces.