Bactericidal Properties of Natural Fibers Hybrid Functionalized with ZnO/Cu2+ and ZnO/Cu0

Multifunctional natural fibers with antimicrobial properties have been applied as a viable strategy to prevent microorganism contamination and proliferation on the surface of clothes personal protection equipment marketed used by health professionals, patients, general population. They present intrinsic capacity, providing effective preventing transmission contagion diseases caused pathogenic microorganisms. Herein, we successfully functionalized cotton ZnO/Cu2+ ZnO/Cu0 hybrid systems via hydrothermal routine. Rietveld refinement from X-ray Diffractometry (XRD) data Fourier-Transform Raman Spectroscopy (FT-Raman) indicate alterations cellulose crystallinity index in after functionalization, mainly proportion Iβ polymorph crystal. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) adequate ZnO nanoparticles fixation in-situ reduction copper ions. Antimicrobial tests confirm that multifunctional bactericidal activity against Gram-negative Gram-positive bacteria under electromagnetic irradiation (440–480 nm). Self-disinfection capability UV blocking wipes functionalization were improved.