Skip to main content

Synthesis and characterization of magnetic Ag–Fe3O4@polymer hybrid nanocomposite systems with promising antibacterial application

Research Authors
Basmah N. Aldosari, Mohamed Abd El-Aal, Essam F. Abo Zeid, Tarek M. Faris, Ashraf Aboelela, Ahmed A. ِAbdelatif, Hesham M. Tawfeek
Research Date
Research Department
Research Journal
Drug development and Industrial Pharmacy
Research Publisher
Taylor and Francis
Research Vol
49
Research Website
https://doi.org/10.1080/03639045.2023.2277812
Research Year
2023
Research_Pages
723-733
Research Abstract

Introduction

Bacterial infections caused by different strains of bacteria still one of the most important disorders affecting humans worldwide. Polymers nanocomposite systems could be considered as an alternative to conventional antibiotics to eradicate bacterial infections.

Significance

In an attempt to enhance the antibacterial performance of silver and iron oxide nanoparticles, decrease their aggregation and toxicity, a polymeric hybrid nanocomposite system combining both nanoparticles is produced.

Methods

Magnetic Ag–Fe3O4@polymer hybrid nanocomposites prepared using different polymers, namely polyethylene glycol 4000, ethyl cellulose, and chitosan were synthesized via wet impregnation and ball-milling techniques. The produced nanocomposites were tested for their physical properties and antibacterial activities.

Results

XRD, FT-IR, VSM, and TEM results confirmed the successful preparation of hybrid nanocomposites. Hybrid nanocomposites have average crystallite sizes in the following order Ag–Fe3O4@CS (8.9 nm) < Ag–Fe3O4@EC (9.0 nm) < Ag–Fe3O4@PEG4000 (9.4 nm) and active surface area of this trend Ag–Fe3O4@CS (130.4 m2g−1) > Ag–Fe3O4@EC (128.9 m2g−1) > Ag–Fe3O4@PEG4000 (123.4 m2g−1). In addition, they have a saturation magnetization in this order: Ag–Fe3O4@PEG4000 (44.82 emu/g) > Ag–Fe3O4@EC (40.14 emu/g) > Ag–Fe3O4@CS (22.90 emu/g). Hybrid nanocomposites have a pronounced antibacterial action against Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coliPseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus intermedius compared to iron oxide nanoparticles and positive antibacterial drug. In addition, both Ag–Fe3O4@EC and Ag–Fe3O4@CS have a lower MIC values compared to Ag–Fe3O4@PEG and positive control.

Conclusion

Magnetic Ag–Fe3O4 hybrid nanocomposites could be promising antibacterial nanomaterials and could pave the way for the development of new materials with even more unique properties and applications.