Nanocomposite film with green synthesized TiO2 nanoparticles and hydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane polymer: synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial test

Abstract

Abstract The green synthesis of nanoparticles is of considerable interest because it is eco-friendly, cost-effective, biocompatible, and non-toxic. Split pulse extract was used as a reducing/capping agent for the synthesis of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles. Green synthesized nanoparticles were embedded in the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane by using a solution casting technique to develop a nanocomposite. This thin film was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy, high-resolution scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and contact angle analysis. The antibacterial property of the TiO2/PDMS nanocomposite was examined, and the results showed excellent antibacterial activity of TiO2/PDMS compared to PDMS without nanoparticles. The nanocomposite film exhibited antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in the presence of TiO2 nanoparticles in the polymer. Here, different weight percentages of TiO2 nanoparticles, i.e. 0%, 7%, 10%, and 13%, were loaded on the PDMS surface to enhance its antibacterial activity. The green synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles embedded in PDMS and their suitability for antibacterial activity are reported for the first time.