Metal Oxide Nanoparticles against Bacterial Biofilms

The increasing resistance of bacterial biofilms to conventional treatments presents a significant challenge in medical and industrial fields. The limited efficacy of traditional methods has driven the search for innovative alternatives, with nanoparticles (NPs) emerging as a promising solution. Among them, metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs), such as copper oxide, silver oxide, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide, have demonstrated potent antibiofilm properties due to their high surface-area-to-volume ratios, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and surface functionalization capabilities. MONPs combat biofilms through oxidative stress induction, microbial membrane disruption, and inhibition of biofilm matrix formation. However, concerns regarding their cytotoxicity, environmental persistence, and potential for microbial resistance highlight the need for comprehensive toxicological assessments and regulatory guidelines. This chapter explores various synthesis methods of MONPs, including green chemistry approaches and functionalized hybrid nanocomposites, and evaluates how structural modifications influence their antimicrobial activity. A comparative analysis of different MONPs highlights their effectiveness against biofilms, offering insights into material selection for specific applications. Their practical applications include medical device coatings, food packaging, wastewater treatment, and environmental remediation, where the use of MONPs has been investigated for their ability to improve safety and promote sustainability.