A. Adams, E.G William, H. Uddin
Coppin State University,
United States
Keywords: nanofibers, electrospinning, nanomaterials, antibacterial, functionalized
Summary:
The widespread antibiotic resistance of many infections has made antimicrobial nanofibers crucial in today's world. This study aims to manufacture antimicrobial PVDF and PAN nanofibers by incorporating silver nanocubes (AgNCs). Nanocubes of silver (Ag) were synthesized by reducing silver nitrate in the presence of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) using a straightforward method. They were then characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). A significant milestone has been achieved with the fabrication of PVDF, PAN, and AgNCs-embedded PVDF/PAN antibacterial composite nanofibers through electrospinning. Compared to traditional methods for fabricating fibers, electrospinning offers enhanced control over fiber morphology and functionalization, making it ideal for integrating active agents like silver nanocubes. FESEM clearly showed the production of PVDF and PAN nanofiber. Through FESEM, FTIR, and EDX analyses, the existence of silver nanocubes in AgNCs-embedded PVDF/PAN nanofibers was confirmed. The antibacterial tests demonstrated that the AgNCs-embedded PVDF/PAN nanofibers exhibited potent antibacterial properties against Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) bacteria. These mats could be used in applications such as wound dressings, filtration, and other areas where antimicrobial action is crucial.