Synthesis and Characterization of Functionalized Starch by Grafting Pyridine for Use in Antimicrobial Applications

Abstract

AbstractThe urgent need for new, efficient solutions to antibiotic resistance is a serious worldwide healthcare concern. Recently, new classes of antimicrobials known as antimicrobial polymers have played a significant role in tackling multidrug‐resistant bacteria. To achieve this purpose, antimicrobial biodegradable materials made from affordable renewable resources, including polysaccharides, are extensively applied. Here, this study presents a simple one‐pot method for generating powerful antimicrobial polymer using soluble starch and an easily accessible chemical pyridine. The quaternary pyridine‐grafted starch (St‐QP) is prepared and characterized using structural and thermal techniques. To assess the antimicrobial capabilities of the St‐QP for textile application, antimicrobial activities of the St‐QP, antimicrobial activity of the St‐QP‐coated fabric, cytotoxicity, durability of the St‐QP coated fabric, surface morphology of St‐QP coated fabric and antimicrobial activity after washing cycles are also examined. According to the findings, St‐QP and its modified materials have shown good antimicrobial activity against three bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Mycobacterium smegmatis, and the fungus Candida albicans. The St‐QP displays low toxicity to human fibroblasts, and after being coated on fabrics, it shows good durability and antimicrobial activity. The St‐QP coated fabric material shows 80% inhibition for all four microorganisms even after 25 washing cycles.