Figure 4

Schematic illustration of the active disassembly of the Cu-SURMOF 2 under the influence of C. marina . (A) Healthy bacteria in initial contact with the SURMOF. The SEM image shows a pristine Cu-SURMOF 2 surface without the influence of C. marina. (B) Bacteria settled on the intact SURMOF begins secretion of EPS and other molecules. The SEM image shows a bacterium on a HDT SAM. HDT presents a surface on which the bacteria can grow unaffected. (C) Disassembly of the SURMOF and release of Cu²⁺ ions. The SEM image shows a bacterium on a Cu-SURMOF 2 surface after 2 h incubation on the substrate. The bacterium is clearly deformed. (D) Adverse effect on bacteria leading to reduced viability and adhesion strength. The SEM image shows a bacterium with adhesion weakened by the SURMOF 2 so that it detached during preparation for the SEM leaving behind a dark spot.