The Role of Silver Nanoparticles in Enhancing the Structural and Antibacterial Properties of Chitosan/PEO Blend Films

Abstract

The current study investigates the enhancement of the structural, morphological, and antibacterial properties of a nanocomposite material composed of chitosan (CS) and polyethylene oxide (PEO). The improvement is achieved through the incorporation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) at varying concentrations of 1%, 3%, and 5%. A variety of analytical techniques were applied. The XRD, FE-SEM, and FTIR investigations revealed that the introduction of AgNPs induced substantial alterations in the crystallinity of the material, the characteristics of its surface, and the behavior of functional groups within the polymer matrix. The changes observed in these parameters underscore the influence of AgNPs on the fundamental properties of the CS/PEO blend. To further characterize the nanocomposites, Zeta Potential analysis was performed. This technique provides important information about the stability and surface charge characteristics of the nanocomposites, which in turn allows for a better understanding of the dispersion and distribution of nanoparticles within the polymer matrix. Antibacterial tests demonstrated enhanced inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, particularly in AgNP-containing films. The combined effects of chitosan and AgNPs contributed to strong antibacterial performance, especially against Gram-positive bacteria.