Abstract: A process for preparing an antimicrobial coating composition includes the following steps: a. providing an aqueous dispersion having graphite, at least one oxidizing agent and optionally at least one antimicrobial agent; b. subjecting the aqueous dispersion from step a to high shear homogenization mixing the dispersion at a mixing speed equal to or greater than 1000 rpm, to obtain an antibacterial aqueous dispersion having graphene oxide; and c. mixing the aqueous antimicrobial dispersion with at least one film-forming agent to obtain the antimicrobial coating composition. The composition obtainable by the above process and use thereof to impart antimicrobial properties to the surface of a substrate are also related.

Abstract: A process for preparing graphene oxide includes the steps of subjecting an aqueous dispersion of a graphite to an exfoliation step by high shear mixing at a mixing speed equal to or greater than 3000 rpm and to an oxidation step with an oxidizing agent selected from hydrogen peroxide, potassium hydroxide and mixtures thereof, wherein the graphite exfoliation step can precede, follow or be conducted together with the oxidation step. Also related is the use of the graphene oxide thus obtained to impart antimicrobial properties to rubber articles.

Abstract: The invention relates to a strain of Arthrobacter sp. CBS 208.96 capable of selectively effecting the opening of the C-S bond of sulfurated organic molecules present in carbonaceous materials and its use in a process for the selective removal of organic sulfur from fossil fuels contained therein.