Innovative preparation of bacterial cellulose/silver nanocomposite hydrogels: In situ green synthesis, characterization, and antibacterial properties

Abstract

Abstract In this study, an innovative in situ green strategy was applied to prepare bacterial cellulose/silver nanocomposites using green tea as a substrate for the fermentation of Acetobacter xylinum bacteria and a reducing agent for the in situ synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The samples were analyzed by different characterization tests including field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), UV–vis spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, and ATR. The results indicated the excellent antibacterial activities with 100% bacterial reduction percentage and inhibition zones of 2.6 and 2.8 cm against S. aureus and E. coli , respectively. Moreover, water absorption percentage and vertical wicking measurements supported the hydrogel properties of the prepared bio‐cellulose/silver nanocomposites. Finding of this research suggested the potential of the proposed green route for preparing antibacterial BC which can be regarded as a candidate for future wound healing applications.