Optimization of the Antifungal Property in a Composite of Polyurethane and Silver Nanoparticles against the Trichophyton rubrum Fungus

Abstract

This research aims to analyze and optimize the antifungal property of a composite material made of polyurethane (PUR) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) against the fungus Trichophyton rubrum to find the optimal parameters that allow the highest inhibition of the fungal growth to be used in healthcare aimed at the population vulnerable to fungal infections, such as people suffering from diabetes mellitus, thus creating an opportunity for the generation of antifungal products for healthcare applications. This study analyzes the effect of three variables on the antifungal properties of the composite material: nanoparticle size, concentration, and the application of an ultrasonic treatment as a method to aid the dispersion of the AgNPs into PUR matrix. The proposed methodology includes tests in accordance with a standar to evaluate the growth inhibition of the fungi on a culture medium. A categorical logistic regression model was adjusted from 23 factorial design with five replicates, which was optimized by the use of multi-objective genetic algorithms. The experimental factors showed a significant effect on the growth inhibition of the fungus, and the optimal levels were determined.