Abstract
Cuprous oxide nanoparticles (Cu2ONPs) were used for preparing composites with linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) by co-extrusion, thermal adhesion, and attachment using ethyl cyanoacrylate, trimethoxyvinylsilane, and epoxy resin. The composites were examined by Scanning electron microscope and tested for their antibacterial activity against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli. All of these composites—except for the one obtained by extrusion—eradicated cells of both bacteria within half an hour. The composite prepared by thermal adhesion of Cu2ONPs on LLDPE had the highest external exposure of nanoparticles and exhibited the highest activity against the bacteria. This composite and the one obtained using ethyl cyanoacrylate showed no leaching of copper ions into the aqueous phase. Copper ion leaching from composites prepared with trimethoxyvinylsilane and epoxy resin was very low. The antibacterial activity of the composites can be rated as follows: obtained by thermal adhesion > obtained using ethyl cyanoacrylate > obtained using trimethoxyvinylsilane > obtained using epoxy resin > obtained by extrusion. The composites with the highest activity are potential materials for tap water and wastewater disinfection.
Highlights
Polymeric materials have long become an integral part of our lives
Polyolefins do not possess antibacterial properties, and this is the cause for various problems that accompany water transportation, such as contamination by microorganisms, biofilm formation [6], and adherence of fungi and viruses to pipe walls
The aim of the present study is to propose simple approaches for immobilization of cuprous oxide nanoparticles (Cu2ONPs) for preparing composites with polyethylene that exhibit antibacterial properties for water disinfection
Summary
Polymeric materials have long become an integral part of our lives They are used in most industrial fields, including the textile industry, food packaging, medical device production, and water supply and purification systems [1]. Polyolefins do not possess antibacterial properties, and this is the cause for various problems that accompany water transportation, such as contamination by microorganisms, biofilm formation [6], and adherence of fungi and viruses to pipe walls. These problems may lead to the propagation of serious infections among humans. It is necessary to carry out effective water disinfection in order to combat and prevent water contamination
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