Yes, graphene and its derivatives (GO and rGO) have been reported to exhibit antimicrobial properties when blended with a polymer matrix. The antimicrobial properties of graphene-based nanomaterials are attributed to their large surface area, high surface energy, and ability to disrupt bacterial membranes through physical and chemical interactions.
Several studies have reported the use of graphene and its derivatives in polymer composites for antimicrobial applications. For example, graphene oxide (GO) has been blended with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to create an antibacterial film with excellent antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Similarly, graphene/polyethylene nanocomposites have been shown to have strong antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus.
It should be noted that the antimicrobial activity of graphene-based nanomaterials can depend on various factors such as the concentration, size, and surface chemistry of the particles, as well as the type of microorganisms tested. Therefore, further studies are needed to fully understand the antimicrobial properties of graphene-based nanomaterials in polymer composites.