Innovative natural polymer metal nanocomposites and their antimicrobial activity

Metal based nanocomposites are gaining popularity for the past few years due to their promising chemical and physical properties. These nanocomposites can be obtained by incorporation of metal nanoparticles with glass, ceramic and polymer. Metal polymer nanoparticles can be formed through direct reduction method, in situ methods like chemical reduction, photoreduction and thermal decomposition of metallic salt inside the polymer, ex-situ by direct insertion of metallic nanoparticles into the polymer, through vapor phase deposition techniques and ion implantation. Natural polymers such as cellulose, starch, chitin, chitosan, gelatin, dextran, alginate, pectin, guar gum, rubber and fibrin are preferred than the synthetic ones due to their amazing properties including maximized purity and crystallinity, tensile solidity, improved elasticity and extensive surface area. In our review, we spotlight the fabrication methods and the innovative applications of many natural polymers metal nanocomposites, as well as their antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.