Copper Sulfide Semiconducting Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Applications: Synthesis Strategies, Mechanisms and Performance – A Review

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Year : 2026 | Volume : 14 | 04 | Page :
By

Rupali Pradeep Patil,

Bharat B. Kale,

  1. Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, Pimpri Chinchwad University, Pune, Maharashtra, India
  2. Director, Research & Development, Department of Chemistry, Pimpri Chinchwad University, Pune, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS NPs) have drawn growing attention as a next-generation antibacterial platform, owing to their tunable structural, optical, and catalytic properties. This review consolidates current evidence on CuS NP synthesis, mechanisms, and antibacterial performance, comparing chemical and green synthesis routes alongside the effects of morphology, doping, and surface modification. Mechanistically, CuS NPs act through several overlapping pathways, including reactive oxygen species generation, bacterial membrane disruption, ion release, and synergistic photothermal or photodynamic effects. Performance data indicate broad-spectrum activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with particularly strong efficacy against biofilms and multidrug-resistant strains; quantitative measures such as minimum inhibitory concentration and zone of inhibition support these findings, and combination with conventional antibiotics offers a further route to lower effective dosing. Beyond standalone applications, CuS-polymer nanocomposites extend this activity into biomedical coatings, wound dressings, sensors, and energy devices, while also improving mechanical and thermal properties of the host matrix. Even so, biocompatibility optimization, toxicity control, and long-term stability testing remain unresolved before clinical translation becomes routine. Emerging directions include stimuli-responsive and self-healing composites, machine learning-guided formulation design, and real-time biomedical monitoring platforms built around CuS nanostructures. Overall, this review positions CuS nanoparticles as a versatile and sustainable platform for antimicrobial applications, while identifying the methodological gaps that stand between current laboratory findings and reliable clinical use.

Keywords: Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles,Antibacterial Mechanisms, Green Synthesis, Chemical Synthesis, Biofilms, Clinical Translation, Biopolymers, Nanoparticle, Green Composite, Microstructural Properties, Thermal Analysis

How to cite this article: Rupali Pradeep Patil, Bharat B. Kale. Copper Sulfide Semiconducting Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Applications: Synthesis Strategies, Mechanisms and Performance – A Review. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(04):-.
How to cite this URL: Rupali Pradeep Patil, Bharat B. Kale. Copper Sulfide Semiconducting Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Applications: Synthesis Strategies, Mechanisms and Performance – A Review. Journal of Polymer & Composites. 2026; 14(04):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jopc/article=2026/view=251618

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Ahead of Print Subscription Review Article
Volume 14
04
Received 30/05/2026
Accepted 09/07/2026
Published 04/08/2026
Publication Time 66 Days

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