Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of the antimicrobial power of the Ag/TiO2 nanocomposite

Abstract

In the last decades, there has been an increase in interest in studies in the field of nanotechnology. These are due to the several advantages and applications that nanomaterials have. Along with advances in research involving nanotechnology, there is a concern with the control of bacteria, fungi, and viruses harmful to human health. A very clear and current example is the Pandemic (COVID-19) that the world is experiencing, which highlights the importance of controlling microorganisms in the atmosphere, water, and soils. Among the several materials that have the antimicrobial capacity, are silver and titanium dioxide. In this context, this work aimed to synthesize and characterize Ag/TiO2 nanocomposites by physical-chemical techniques and evaluate them against their antimicrobial power against E.coli microorganisms. S. aureus and C.albicans. Silver nanoparticles were dispersed over a matrix of titanium dioxide, which showed antimicrobial power between 62 and 71%, demonstrating to be a material with great potential to be used in water and air purifying products.