Magnetically responsive antibacterial nanocrystalline jute cellulose nanocomposites with moderate catalytic activity

Nanocrystalline jute cellulose (NCJC) particles were prepared from bleached jute pulp by a modified acid hydrolysis. The surface of NCJC particles were first modified with iron oxide nanoparticles and then with Ag nanoparticles to prepare antibacterial NCJC/Fe₃O₄/Ag nanocomposite particles. The successive structural modification of NCJC particles with Fe₃O₄ and Ag nanoparticles was confirmed. NCJC/Fe₃O₄/Ag nanocomposite particles responded well in external magnetic field. The SEM and TEM images of NCJC particles were in the nanometer range. NCJC/Fe₃O₄/Ag nanocomposite particles (0.005 mg mL^-1) completely degraded 20 mL of 0.1 mM congo red aqueous solution within 13 min aided by NaBH₄ reducing agent. NCJC/Fe₃O₄/Ag nanocomposite particles were moderately active against both Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria. A maximum inhibition zone of 21 mm was observed against Gram negative Shigella boydii bacteria with 60 mg/disc of nanocomposite particles. The antioxidant property of nanocomposite particles was also positive.