Production of antimicrobial paper using nanosilver, nanocellulose, and chitosan from a coronavirus perspective

Abstract

The pulp and paper industry has an opportunity to play a vital role in breaking the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic through production that supports widespread use of antimicrobial paper. This paper provides a brief review of paper and paper-related industries, such as those producing relevant additives, and R&D organizations that are actively engaged in developing antimicrobial papers. The focus here is on the potential of three nano-additives for use in production of antimicrobial papers that combat coronavirus: nanosilver, nanocellulose, and chitosan. Various recent developments in relevant areas and concepts underlining the fight against coronavirus are also covered, as are related terms and concepts. Application: This paper may encourage additional production of antimicrobial papers in the paper industry. Nanocellulose producers looking to promote additional applications for nanocellulose will also find antimicrobial papers quite promising. Additionally, this paper demonstrates that incorporation of inorganic nanoparticles onto the nanocellulose and chitosan matrix advances nanotechnology applications.