Synthesis silver nanoparticles in chitosan by γ-irradiation for antimicrobial applications

Abstract

Silver nanoparticles (AgNP) with concentration of 2 mM/L and particle size from 7–9 nm were synthesized by -irradiating Ag⁺ in aqueous solution in the presence of chitosan as stabilising agent, with different chitosan concentration of 0.5 %, 1.0 % and 2.0 %. Incorporation of AgNP/chitosan onto cotton fabric was carried out by padding method. The content of AgNP on cotton fabric released from cotton fabric after washing was determined by inductively couple plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES). The results showed that cotton/AgNP fabric with 0.5 % - 1.0 % chitosan was the best one of AgNP adhesion ability on cotton fabric. Antibacterial activity against Saureus indicated that cotton/AgNP fabric with AgNP content more than 100 mg/kg exhibited highly antibacterial activity (η > 98%). Thus, the resultant cotton/AgNPs fabric with highly antibacterial activity can be potentially used as bed drapes and/or patient uniforms in hospitals, etc.