Evaluation of the resistance of CuO-coated contact lenses to bacterial contamination

Abstract

The main aim of this research was to prepare an antibacterial coating on the surface of Contact Lenses (CL) by using copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) and assessment the activity of these nanoparticles to reduce the attachment of bacteria on the lenses. For coating we used an immersion method with three different solutions Ethyl alcohol 99%, Oil and lenses solution and dispersed CuO nanoparticles at different concentrations (100ppm, 200ppm and 300ppm). Two immersion methods were used to prepare coating 1-immersion for 5 minutes in ethanol and contact lens solution. 2-double dipping method for 5 seconds for each turn used with oil solution. The coated lenses was examined by scanning electron microscope and also was incubated with two different bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa for 24hrs, 72hrs and 30 days at 37 0 C. In this study another aim was preceded by testing the ability of the two bacterial types to form biofilm by tube and Congo red agar methods.