PVC containing silver nanoparticles with antimicrobial properties effective against SARS-CoV-2

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) is widely used in healthcare but lacks antimicrobial properties, increasing infection risks.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for self-disinfecting materials in hospitals to combat viruses like SARS-CoV-2.
• Developing antimicrobial PVC is crucial for preventing secondary transmission routes in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create self-disinfecting Poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) nanocomposites using silver nanoparticles (AgNPs).
• To evaluate the impact of AgNPs on the mechanical, optical, and virucidal properties of PVC.
• To assess the efficacy of these nanocomposites against SARS-CoV-2.

Main Methods:

• PVC/AgNP nanocomposites were prepared using a molten state method.
• Mechanical properties (Young's modulus, tensile strength, impact strength) were tested.
• Optical properties (yellowness index, optical bandgap) were measured.
• Virucidal activity against SARS-CoV-2 (B.1.1.28 strain) was evaluated.

Main Results:

• Incorporating 0.1-0.5 wt% AgNPs reduced Young's modulus and tensile strength but did not significantly alter impact strength.
• PVC/AgNP nanocomposites exhibited increased yellowness index and decreased optical bandgap.
• Virucidal activity against SARS-CoV-2 was observed within 48 hours for nanocomposites containing at least 0.3 wt% AgNPs.

Conclusions:

• PVC/AgNP nanocomposites offer a promising solution for self-disinfecting biomedical applications.
• The developed materials can help prevent secondary COVID-19 contagion in hospital environments.
• Further research can optimize AgNP content for enhanced virucidal efficacy and material integrity.