Inhibition of Fungal Growth Using Modified TiO₂ with Core@Shell Structure of Ag@CuO Clusters

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Titanium dioxide (TiO2) exhibits photocatalytic disinfection (PCD) properties by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) for microbe destruction.
• TiO2's reliance on UV irradiation limits its application in indoor environments.
• Surface modification of TiO2 can enhance its antimicrobial capabilities under broader conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antifungal properties of surface-modified TiO2 with silver (Ag) and copper oxide (CuO) nanoclusters.
• To evaluate the efficacy of Ag@CuO/TiO2 core-shell structures under dark and visible light conditions.
• To explore the synergistic effects of co-modified TiO2 with Ag and Cu for enhanced disinfection.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of Ag@CuO/TiO2 core-shell nanostructures with a specific Ag-Cu ratio (1:3).
• Assessment of antifungal activity against Aspergillus melleus and Penicillium chrysogenum.
• Evaluation of inhibition of fungal growth, sporulation, and droplet generation under dark and visible light.

Main Results:

• The Ag@CuO/TiO2 sample demonstrated significant antifungal activity against tested fungi.
• Antifungal properties were observed under both dark and visible light conditions, indicating enhanced photoactivity.
• Inhibition of fungal sporulation and the generation of mycotoxin-containing droplets was achieved.

Conclusions:

• Co-modification of TiO2 with silver and copper in a core-shell structure yields a synergistic effect for enhanced antifungal activity.
• The Ag@CuO/TiO2 material presents a promising solution for disinfection applications in environments lacking UV light.
• This nanostructured material effectively inhibits fungal growth and sporulation, with implications for controlling mycotoxin contamination.