Antibacterial properties of TaN-(Ag,Cu) nanocomposite thin films

► TaN-(Ag,Cu) nanocomposite films were prepared combining co-sputtering and RTA. ► Antibacterial efficiency against either E. coli or S. aureus can be much improved. ► The annealing temperature for TaN-(Cu,Ag) can be as low as 200 °C. ► The synergistic effect due to the co-existence of Ag and Cu is obvious. ► The emergence of Ag and Cu particles can help reducing friction and wear rate.