Magnetically Separable Photoactive Nanofiber Membranes for Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Applications

We have prepared photoactive multifunctional nanofiber membranes via the simple electrospinning method. The antibacterial and photocatalytic properties of these materials are based on the generation of singlet oxygen formed by processes photosensitized by the tetraphenylporphyrin encapsulated in the nanofibers. The addition of magnetic features in the form of magnetic maghemite (gamma-Fe2O3) nanoparticles stabilized by polyethylenimine enables additional functionalities, namely, the postirradiation formation of hydrogen peroxide and improved photothermal properties. This hybrid material allows for remote manipulation by a magnetic field, even in hazardous and/or highly microbial contaminant environments.

Automated summary

Photoactive multifunctional nanofiber membranes were prepared using the electrospinning method, and their antibacterial and photocatalytic properties were based on the generation of singlet oxygen by photosensitized processes. The addition of magnetic maghemite nanoparticles enabled remote manipulation by a magnetic field and improved photothermal properties.