Formation of CuO nanostructures via chemical route for biomedical applications

Abstract

In this report, we have successfully prepared the CuO nanostructure by simple and cost-effective co-precipitation method by varying the concentration of precursor’s solution. The variation of concentration and its effect on the physico-chemical properties of the CuO nanostructure was investigated and discussed in detail. The structural, surface morphological, elemental composition, particle size with zeta potential, optical properties and surface area of the CuO nanostructures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared analysis (FT-IR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), Dynamic light scattering (DLS), UV–Visible spectroscopy and BET analysis respectively. The XRD confirms the phase formation of the pure CuO and observed the monoclinic crystal structure of CuO nanostructure. Also, the surface morphology was studied by using SEM and it showed the petals like morphology and change in the aspect ratio of the nanostructure was observed when the concentration of precursors solution was altered. The surface area and porosity of the CuO nanostructures have been carried out and it reveals a more porous structure. Furthermore, the nanostructures are utilized for study of the antimicrobial properties. It is observed that CuO nanostructures shows enhanced antimicrobial properties towards B. subtilis, E.coli and E. faecalis and S. aureus bacteria. Also, we have studied the antifungal activity tested against C. albicans. Therefore, CuO nanostructures can be used as an ingredient for dermatological applications in creams, lotions, ointments, or other biomedical applications for human beings.