Synthesis and characterization of non-leaching biocidal polyurethanes

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Microbiology

Background:

• Polyurethanes are versatile polymers with potential antimicrobial applications.
• Developing effective antimicrobial surfaces is crucial for preventing infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize quaternized polyurethanes with biocidal activity.
• To investigate the factors influencing the antimicrobial efficacy of these materials.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of polyurethane block copolymers with N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl)isonicotinamide (BIN) as chain extender.
• Quaternization of BIN moieties with various alkyl halides.
• Evaluation of material properties (tensile strength, water absorption, contact angle).
• Assessment of antibacterial activity using zone of inhibition and fluorescence microscopy.

Main Results:

• Quaternized polyurethanes exhibited dose-dependent biocidal activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
• Antimicrobial efficacy was influenced by the type of alkyl halide, quaternization concentration, bacterial Gram-type, and contact time.
• Material properties were modulated by quaternization, affecting their suitability for surface applications.

Conclusions:

• The synthesized cationic polyurethanes demonstrate significant potential as antimicrobial materials.
• Optimization of quaternization strategies can yield tailored biocidal properties for specific applications.
• Fluorescence microscopy is a reliable method for assessing bacterial viability on polymer surfaces.