Antibacterial Properties of Graphene and its Reinforcement Effect on Compressive Properties of PMMA

Abstract

Graphene and its derivatives have received significant attention due to their outstanding properties. This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial properties of graphene and its reinforcement effect on the mechanical properties of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) for potential bone substitution. The morphology of graphene was initially observed via a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). Five concentrations of graphene (1, 0.5, 0.25, 0.125, and 0.0625 mg/mL) were then prepared, and its antibacterial properties were assessed against Staphylococcus aureus. Two concentrations that exhibited the highest antibacterial properties were selected and incorporated with PMMA. Graphene exhibited superior antibacterial properties at 0.5 and 1.0 mg/mL concentrations. The 0.5 mg/mL graphene-reinforced PMMA presented an increment of compressive strength by up to 48% and a compressive modulus of 72% compared to unfilled PMMA. In conclusion, the PMMA composite with improved biological and mechanical performance could be potentially used as a bone substitution.