On the reflectivity and antibacterial/antifungal responses of Al-Ni-Y optical thin film metallic glass composites

• Published in: Surface & coatings technology 2017-10, Vol.327, p.75-82
• Main Authors: Chang, C.M., Yang, C.J., Wang, K.-K., Liu, J.-K., Hsu, J.H., Huang, J.C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Al-Ni-Y metallic glass; Aluminum; Amorphous materials; Antifungal; Antiinfectives and antibacterials; Antimicrobial; Bacteria; Devices; Fungicides; Intermetallic compounds; Metallic glasses; Microstructure; Nickel; Optical coatings; Optical film; Reflectance; Surface roughness; Thin film coatings; Yttrium
• ISSN: 0257-8972; 1879-3347
• DOI: 10.1016/j.surfcoat.2017.08.005

It has been demonstrated that the Al-Ni-Y based thin film metallic glass composites (TFMGCs) can provide high optical reflectivity, especially over the UV regime, suitable for various optical devices such as optical coating or as functional layer. When such optical devices are applied in humid environment which is sensitive to bacteria or fungus, the antibacterial or antifungal capability needs to be explored. In this study, the microstructural evolution, surface roughness, hardness, optical reflectivity, and antimicrobial/antifungal responses of the Al-Ni-Y based films are overall reported. It is demonstrated that the current Al-Ni-Y TFMGCs can exhibit satisfactory UV reflection, as well as highly promising antibacterial or antifungal capability. •The AlNiY thin film metallic glass composites exhibit promising optical UV reflection.•Such AlNiY thin films possess high antibacterial and antifungal capability.•The films are favorable for long-termed service in high-quality clean or surgery rooms.