Preparation and characterization of zno-containing uv-curable antibacterial coatings

Abstract

Chitosan is a natural carbohydrate that is extracted from the shells of seafood, such as crabs and shrimp. Chitosan has antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. Chitosan is advantageous in terms of its non-toxicity, biodegradability and biocompatibility. For this reason, chitosan is a natural biopolymer used in many industrial areas such as food, medicine, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture. ZnO nanoparticles are nontoxic inorganic oxides that have been extensively used as antibacterial agents in the industry and academic studies. In this study, acrylate functionality was first added to chitosan, and then a control formulation was prepared by mixing it with other acrylate group containing monomers. Then the prepared ZnO nanoparticles were included in the control formulation. The prepared formulation was applied to the polycarbonate surface by spraying method and left to dry for 3 minutes under UV rays. The structural, thermal and antibacterial properties of the obtained biocompatible coating were examined and it was observed that the coating showed antibacterial properties.