Pobedinsky M., Johnston J.
Victoria University of Wellington, NZ
Keywords: antimicrobial, catalyst, nanogold, nanosilver, plastic
We present the innovative development of new plastic materials functionalised by nanogold and nanosilver entities which exhibit anti-microbial and catalytic effects for applications such as air and water filters, membranes, protective textiles, wound dressings and coatings on medical implants which opens up new business opportunities. We have utilised the chemical affinity of gold and silver for nitrogen to bind nanogold and nanosilver entities to nylon, polyurethane and other N-containing polymers to produce new functionalised plastics that can be moulded by conventional processes. Similarly nanogold and nanosilver have been chemically bound to ester/carboxyl groups in PET and related polymers. The nanogold and nanosilver are formed on the surface and within the polymer substrates. Nanogold – plastics are pink-purple in colour resulting from the surface plasmon resonance scattering of light by gold nanoparticles about 20 nm in size. Nanosilver – plastics are yellow. A key feature of our technology is that the nanogold and nanosilver entities are strongly chemically bound onto the polymer and do not leach out into the environment. This obviates any consumer concerns and provides the composite plastics developed here with a competitive advantage. The nanogold and nanosilver plastics exhibit effective anti-microbial activity against ATCC 29213 Staphylococcus Aureus microbes.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2010: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 764 - 767
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topics: Advanced Materials for Engineering Applications, Composite Materials
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3401-5