Antifouling Polymer-Coated Anthocyanin-Loaded Cellulose Nanocrystals Demonstrate Reduced Bacterial Detection...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biotechnology
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Microbial contamination poses significant global challenges across various industries.
• Hydrophilic polymer coatings incorporating nanomaterials are explored for enhanced antifouling and stimuli-responsive properties.
• Developing visual indicators for bacterial contamination is crucial for early detection and prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create advanced antifouling materials with integrated color-changing capabilities.
• To combine the properties of vitamin B5 analogous methacrylamide (B5AMA) polymers with anthocyanin-dye-loaded cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs).
• To develop a visual detection system for bacterial contamination.

Main Methods:

• Surface-initiated photoiniferter reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (SP-RAFT) polymerization was used to graft poly(B5AMA) onto CNCs.
• Characterization techniques included proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM/TEM), and X-ray photon spectroscopy (XPS).
• Anthocyanin dye loading and evaluation of pH-dependent color changes in both solution and dried film states were performed.

Main Results:

• Poly(B5AMA)-grafted CNCs were successfully synthesized and characterized, confirming polymer chain grafting.
• Anthocyanin-loaded CNCs exhibited vibrant color changes in response to bacterial contamination in solution.
• The color-changing capability in dried films was limited, attributed to the enhanced dispersibility and antifouling properties of the polymer-coated CNCs.

Conclusions:

• The developed poly(B5AMA)-grafted CNCs show promise as stimuli-responsive antifouling materials.
• The anthocyanin dye integration provides a visual cue for bacterial contamination.
• Further optimization is needed to enhance color-changing performance in dried film applications.