Variation in the Performance of MWCNT/ZnO Hybrid Material with pH for Efficient Antibacterial Agent

Abstract

In the present work, multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles at pH 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, and 10.0 were prepared through the coprecipitation method to improve the antibacterial activity. Morphological, structural, and optical analysis, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and field emission scanning electron microscopy, was used to investigate the formation of composites. Analysis revealed that there were variations in morphology from agglomerated structures to rod-like then flower-like structures as pH varied from 6.0 to 10.0. The MWCNT/ZnO composite enhanced the antibacterial activity especially for Staphylococcus aureus as a maximum 20 mm zone of inhibition was observed. The data presented in the present study proves that such composites are an efficient antibacterial agent and suitable for therapy for severe infections.