Highly efficient and photo-triggered elimination of Aspergillus fumigatus spores by Zn-Ti layered double hydroxide

Aspergillus fumigatus ( A. fumigatus ) is a representative significant pathogenic fungus and its spores are arduous to inactivate. Herein, an efficient and environmental-friendly photocatalytic method to eliminate A. fumigatus spores was demonstrated. Zn-Ti layered double hydroxide (Zn-Ti LDH), showed the admirable activity with above 99.34% disinfection rate under visible light illumination for 6 h. The compelling sterilization activities were ascribed to the potent synergistic effect of zinc ions (Zn 2+ ) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The attack of these species caused the eradication of fungal cell structure, and resulting in the leakage of cytoplasmic as demonstrated by scanning electron microscope, confocal laser scanning microscope and potassium ions (K + ) leakage test. In addition, Zn-Ti LDH released Zn 2+ and ROS only under visible light irradiation, which endows the material light-triggered bactericidal property. Overall, these findings not only provide a green and sustainable way to control A. fumigatus contaminations, but also can be as an example to control other toxic fungi in future study.