Novel TiO2/PANI composites as a disinfectant for the elimination of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in aquaculture water

Abstract

The contamination of bacteria has become a severe issue for aquaculture products. TiO2 and PANI can potentially be used to kill bacteria as a biological disinfectant. In this study, the destruction of E. coli and S. aureus via novel TiO2/PANI composite was investigated on a laboratory scale with ratios 1:1, 1:2, and 2:1, respectively, and the flow rate of the aquaculture water was 12 mL/min, 24 mL/min, and 36 mL/min for 30 min, respectively. Furthermore, the novel TiO2/PANI composite filters were soaked one time, two times, three times, respectively, in 10 s. The results showed that the TiO2/PANI (1:2) with 36 mL had a better efficiency removal rate of E. coli and S. aureus 98.9% and 80%, respectively. The PANI composite filter with three times soaked showed the best efficiency removal of E. coli and S. aureus more than 99% (0 CFU/mL). A novel TiO 2/PANI composite consists of OH radicals that play a crucial role in disrupting the membrane and cell metabolism, confirming antibacterial activity E. coli and S. aureus. Thereby, novel TiO2/PANI composite is thus recommended to eliminate bacteria as a disinfectant in the aquaculture medium.