Production of nanocomposite films functionalized with silver nanoparticles bioreduced with rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil

Abstract

This study produced nanocomposite films with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) bioreduced with rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil. The nanocomposites were produced by the casting technique with gelatin/carboxymethyl cellulose/citric pectin and functionalized with 15, 30, and 50% (v/v) AgNPs. The results demonstrate that the rosemary essential oil presented various bioactive compounds, and the major compounds were α-pinene, bornyl acetate, and 1,8-cineol. The AgNPs showed a particle size lower than 50 nm, zeta potential of −30 mV, and polydispersity index of 0.35. UV–vis spectroscopy, TEM, SEM, and XRD confirmed the synthesis of AgNPs with spherical shapes, diameters of 50 nm, and crystalline structures. The nanocomposite films containing AgNPs demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against eight pathogenic microorganisms. The incorporation of AgNPs affected the opacity and improved the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. In conclusion, the eco-friendly nanocomposite produced can be a sustainable material for biological applications.

Keywords

• Bioreduction
• Nanomaterial
• Nanotechnology
• Films
• Composite