Additive manufacturing of a novel in-situ alloyed AISI316L-Cu stainless steel: Microstructure and antibacterial properties

Developing antibacterial metal implants is an innovative approach to reducing the risk of implant-related infections. In order to clarify the in-situ effect of copper contents on the microstructure and antibacterial properties of AISI316L stainless steel for advanced applications, Cu-bearing stainless steel was developed by the mean of the laser powder bed fusion process. This work demonstrates that using in-situ alloying with Cu addition can significantly promote antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus without significantly affecting microstructures. This methodology would apply to developing novel metallic materials towards new engineering applications of multi-function.