The University of Rzeszów, together with the Podkarpackie Innovation Centre in Rzeszów, has been granted another patent, further strengthening the region’s position in the field of modern materials technology. By a decision dated 23 January 2026, patent protection was granted for the invention “Method for producing an antibacterial nanocomposite coating and an antibacterial coating produced by this method”. The patent was developed as part of the project “Antibacterial TiO₂:Ag,N coating produced on tempered glass applied to touchscreens”, funded by the Podkarpackie Innovation Centre in Rzeszów.

The invention is the result of intensive research conducted over the past dozen or so years by an interdisciplinary team of scientists from the Faculty of Exact and Technical Sciences, the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Biotechnology at the University of Rzeszów, comprising S. Adamiak, Y. Bobitski, W. Bochnowski, J. Cebulski, B. Cieniek, A. Dziedzic (leader), J. Kisała, M. Kus-Liśkiewicz, D. Płoch, P. Potera, P. Skała, M. Trzyna, A. Wal, G. Wisz, A. Żaczek, Ł. Szyller and B. Zdeb.

The team is developing new technologies for thin-film, antibacterial nanocomposites based on titanium dioxide. The research also includes development activities related to the acquisition and use of modern PVD equipment, carried out in collaboration with ML System from Zaczernie.

The antibacterial nanocomposite coating developed has been designed for use on protective glass panels fitted to touchscreens, as found in smartphones, tablets, control panels and industrial equipment. It is also possible to apply it to other surfaces, including mirrors, glass shower cubicles, sanitary ceramics and glass walls. These applications are further supported by an earlier patent concerning antibacterial coatings, also developed by the UR team. The coating is characterised by a set of key parameters that make it competitive on the market. The nanometric thickness of the coating and low metal content, which reduces production costs; high transparency, enabling application on touchscreens; hydrophilic properties, preventing the accumulation of contaminants; excellent mechanical properties, ensuring surface protection against scratches; high antibacterial efficacy, with over 90% reduction in Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The coating’s antibacterial action is activated both by visible light — sunlight or light emitted by modern LED lamps — and independently of lighting — through the release of silver ions. The coating is based on titanium dioxide doped with silver and/or platinum and/or nitrogen, which contributes to its exceptional activity and stability.

The patented technology has significant commercialisation potential in the following sectors: consumer electronics, medicine and medical devices, industrial equipment and automation, sanitary infrastructure and interior design, the hospitality industry, and public services.

The University of Rzeszów and the Podkarpackie Innovation Centre invite companies interested in implementing the coating into production — both directly and through participation in implementation grants.