Microfibrillated Cellulose-Silver Nanocomposite Based Pva Hydrogels and Their Enhanced Physical, Mechanical and Antibacterial Properties

Abstract

Modification of cellulose with silver nano particles produces various nano-composites with significantly developed properties. This work aims to prepare a PVA hydrogel modified with cellulose/silver nano-composites having potential applications in various fields including biomedical, antimicrobial inhibition, textile wears, etc. Micro fibrillated cellulose/silver nano-composites hydro gels were prepared in the aqueous medium with aid of microwave-assisted heating. Different percentages of nanocomposites were incorporated in PVA hydro gel to enhance the properties of PVA hydrogel. Prepared products were characterized by UV–Visible spectroscopy, FTIR, TGA, XRD, and SEM. The swelling (in water saline, acidic and alkaline solution), tensile, thermal, and antibacterial properties were also examined. The formation of Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) in the (MFC-Ag)NC was confirmed by XRD and UV–Vis spectra. UV–Vis spectra showed the characteristic peaks of Ag in the UV–Vis spectra at 425 nm. Final products exhibited significant porosity and maximum swelling of 519.44%. The thermal stability of hydro gel increased with an increased percentage of (MFC-Ag)NC. Hydro gels exhibited significant antimicrobial inhibition against multi drug-resistant microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.