CuO-cotton nanocomposite: Formation, morphology, and antibacterial activity

Copper oxide nanoparticles were synthesized and subsequently deposited on the surface of cotton fabrics using ultrasound irradiation. Optimization of the process resulted in a homogeneous distribution of CuO nanocrystals, 15 nm in size, on the fabric surface. The antibacterial activities of the CuO-fabric composite were tested against Escherichia coli (Gram negative) and Staphylococcus aureus; (Gram positive) cultures. A significant bactericidal effect, even in a 1% coated fabric (%wt.), was demonstrated. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.