Production of antibacterial polyvinylpyrrolidone nanofibers containing silver nanoparticles via electrospinning method

Abstract

Since polymeric nanofibers find extensive usage in medical applications, the risks associated with bacterial contamination must be taken into account. In this study, the production of antibacterial polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) nanofibers containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was achieved. For this production AgNPs with the average diameters ranging from 5.69 nm to 14.83 nm were synthesized and characterized firstly. The properties of the nanofibers produced via electrospinning method were investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The effect of AgNPs on the conductivity of electrospinning solutions were investigated. The stability of nanofiber mats were determined to show the crosslinking efficiency. Finally, antimicrobial tests against three types of microorganisms ( E. coli , S. aureus and A. niger ) were carried out according to zone of inhibition method. Antimicrobial test results proved that nanofibers containing AgNPs show inhibition against E.coli and S. aureus , while neat nanofibers not. Additionally, any antifungal activity was not observed against A. niger .