Synthesis of Hydroxyapatite-Ag Composite as Antimicrobial Agent

Innovative and improved antimicrobial agents by nanotechnology are developed to control and mitigation of resistant microorganisms. Nanoparticles of metals or oxide metals be able to be toxic to bacteria, demonstrating biocidal behaviors at low concentrations. The integration of silver nanoparticles in ceramic matrices has enhanced the antimicrobial performance, resulting in the search for new composites with improved bactericidal properties. The aim of this study was to prepare and characterize hydroxyapatite-silver nanocomposite and evaluate its antimicrobial properties against various Gram-positive and negative bacteria related to drug-resistance infections. Hydroxyapatite nanopowders were produced by sol-gel and silver nanoparticles were synthesized by reduction of Ag⁺ions with the simple addition of gallic acid. Hydroxyapatite-silver composite (HAp-AgNPs) was prepared by adsorption of AgNPs at several concentrations. The results of UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and transmission scanning electron microscopy revealed the existence of AgNPs with diameters around 6 nm. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy corroborated the presence of silver disseminated over the surface of hydroxyapatite nanopowders. All HAp-AgNPs composites demonstrated excellent antibacterial effect even at lower silver concentration. HAp-AgNPs composites have a higher possibility for medical applications focused no the control of microorganisms with drug-resistance.