Preparation and characterization of novel poly(MMA-Co-GMA)/ Ag nanocomposites for biomedical applications

Abstract

THE current work aims at preparation of novel nanocomposite materials based on polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA), glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), monomers and silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) for biomedical applications. The fabricated poly(MMA-co-GMA)/Ag nanocomposites were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and FT-IR spectroscopy. The XRD and FT-IR spectra results confirmed the formation of the poly(MMA-co-GMA)/Ag nanocomposites with silver in nanoform. Furthermore, SEM indicated that the Ag-NPs had well dispersion in polymer matrix. Moreover, the prepared nanocomposites were displayed good enhancement in the thermal stability after addition of (Ag-NPs) by different ratios during polymerization process. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity of the synthesized poly(MMA-co-GMA)/Ag nanocomposites against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger as representatives for gram positive, gram negative bacteria, yeast and fungi were investigated. Thus, poly(MMA-co-GMA)/Ag nanocomposites were concluded as good candidates for biomedical applications.