Preparation, characterization, and antibacterial activity of composite material: Cotton fabric/hydrogel/silver nanoparticles

A new composite cotton fabric with hydrogel containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been synthesized by two steps, and simultaneous in situ synthesis of AgNPs under visible light irradiation has been performed. The influence of silver nitrate concentration upon the hydrogel and AgNP properties was studied by colorimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The antibacterial activities of the composite materials have been investigated against Acinetobacter johnsonii and Escherichia coli in agar medium and meat-peptone broth. The results showed high inhibition activity toward both test cultures which were better expressed against A. johnsonii.