Synthesis, characterization and testing of antimicrobial activity of composites of unsaturated polyester resins with wood flour and silver nanoparticles

Abstract

This paper presents the properties of the wood-resin composites. For improving their antibacterial character, silver nanoparticles were incorporated into their structures. The properties of the obtained materials were analyzed in vitro for their anti-biofilm potency in contact with aerobic Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis; and aerobic Gram-negative Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These pathogens are responsible for various infections, including those associated with healthcare. The effect of silver nanoparticles incorporation on mechanical and thermomechanical properties as well as gloss were investigated for the samples of composites before and after accelerating aging tests. The results show that bacteria can colonize in various wrinkles and cracks on the composites with wood flour but also the surface of the cross-linked unsaturated polyester resin. The addition of nanosilver causes the death of bacteria. It also positively influences mechanical and thermomechanical properties as well as gloss of the resin.