Hybrid Materials: Antimicrobial Performance and Molecular Mechanisms

Dear Colleagues,

By combining organic and inorganic components into a single functional structure, hybrid materials offer a flexible platform for creating sophisticated antimicrobial systems. Synergistic physicochemical characteristics, such as improved stability, surface reactivity, regulated ion release, and customized molecular functionality, are made possible by this combination. The creation of hybrid nanopowders, coatings, and porous networks with enhanced antimicrobial efficacy has been greatly broadened by recent developments in sol–gel synthesis, nanostructuring techniques, and surface engineering. However, for effective material improvement and safer use, a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind antimicrobial performance—such as membrane rupture, reactive oxygen species generation, ion-mediated toxicity, and biofilm inhibition—is necessary.

Recent developments in the design, synthesis, characterization, and molecular-level assessment of antimicrobial hybrid materials are the focus of this Special Issue. We encourage the submission of original research articles and reviews that discuss material–microbe interactions, structure–property correlations, controlled release techniques, and creative hybrid platforms produced through cutting-edge processing techniques. We particularly welcome contributions that offer mechanistic insights using computational, microscopic, and spectroscopic methods. This Special Issue aims to promote the rational development of next-generation antimicrobial materials for biomedical, environmental, and technological applications by linking the fields of materials science and molecular microbiology.

Prof. Dr. Albena Bachvarova-Nedelcheva
Guest Editor

Dr. Kalina Ivanova
Guest Editor Assistant

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