Optimized synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial activity of an alginate–cupric oxide bionanocomposite

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this research, the structural features and optimal conditions for the synthesis of an alginate–CuO nanocomposite with the highest antibacterial activity were investigated. CuO nanoparticles (NPs) and the alginate biopolymer were synthesized chemically and biologically, respectively. Nine nanocomposite compounds were produced on the basis of the Taguchi method with different levels of CuO NPs and the alginate biopolymer nanocomposite with different stirring times. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, high‐resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis confirmed the formation of the nanocomposites. The nanocomposite synthesized with 8 mg/mL copper oxide NPs and 2 mg/mL alginate biopolymer with 60 min of stirring time showed the highest antibacterial activity. The results of two colony forming units and disk‐diffusion methods indicated a stronger antibacterial activity of the alginate–CuO nanocomposite compared with those of its components. The alginate–CuO nanocomposite showed the potential ability to act as an antimicrobial agent against Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018 , 135 , 45682.