PHYS 455 |
| Copper and its oxides are common biocides in most commercial antifouling paints. The synthesis and antibacterial activities of functionalized copper nanoparticle/polymer composites is presented. The acrylic functionality of the stabilized copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) can be copolymerized to other acrylic monomers. Hence, the NPs become part of the polymer backbone. The biological experiments show that the NPs exhibit good antibacterial activity similar to the conventionally used copper-based biocides present in most antibacterial/antifouling coatings. Release of the NPs from the matrix was evaluated by Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Results show the least amount of copper ion leaching from the acrylated Cu NPs in comparison to the non-functionalized biocides. This indicates that the copolymerized NPs are more strongly bound to the polymer matrix. Thus, they can be good candidates for use as active biocides in antibacterial or marine antifouling coatings. |
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PHYS Poster Session - Nanostructured Materials and Nanophotonics
7:30 PM-10:00 PM, Wednesday, April 9, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Hall A, Poster
Division of Physical Chemistry |