Bactericidal mechanisms of Au@TNBs under visible light irradiation

- Au@TNBs displayed strong bactericidal property under visible light conditions.
- H2O2, O2−, 1O2 and diffusing OH were involved in the disinfection processes.
- e− indirectly killed bacteria through producing O2−, H2O2, and OH.
- Without ROS, direct contact of Au@TNBs with bacteria did not inactivate cells.
- Au@TNBs exhibited good potential for repeated use to kill bacteria in water.