Coated Cotton Gauze with Ag/ZnO/chitosan Nanocomposite as a Modern Wound Dressing

Abstract

Cotton gauze is one of the most successful wound dressings which utilize the intrinsic properties of cotton fibers. Modern wound dressings, however, require other properties such as antibacterial and moisture maintaining capabilities. In this study, conventional cotton gauze was treated with chitosan/Ag/ZnO nanocomposite for achieving modern wound dressing properties. Cotton gauze samples were impregnated with chitosan/Ag/ZnO nanocomposite by the dip, dry, and cure method. Samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV-Vis reflective spectroscopy (UV-Vis); and their water absorbency ability, wicking effect, and antibacterial activity determined. The results show that coated cotton gauze with chitosan/Ag/ZnO nanocomposite has increased drying time (78%) and water absorbency (38%). Furthermore, their antibacterial efficiency was 96% for Escherichia coli (E. Coli) and 99% for Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).