The plasma-chemical formation of polysorbate 80-coated silver nanoparticles and composite materials for water treatment

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a simple, eco-friendly method for obtaining colloidal solutions of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) by using of contact non-equilibrium low-temperature plasma in presents polysorbate-80 and to assess their antibacterial activity in composite materials (beads) for water treatment process.

Design/methodology/approach

Silver nanoparticles were prepared in aqueous AgNO3 solution by using of contact non-equilibrium low-temperature plasma in the present of nonionic surfactant polysorbate-80 (Tween 80) as capping agent. Ultraviolet–visible (UV) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and zeta potential analysis were used to study the formation and properties of silver nanoparticles.

Findings

The formation of silver colloidal solutions in the presence of capping agent under plasma discharge is characterized by the presence of peak λmax = 380 – 402 nm in the spectra. The addition of sodium alginate into the reaction mixture allows synthesizing stable colloidal silver solutions. The average size of formed silver particles is up to 50 nm. Ag NPs exhibited an excellent bactericidal activity against both gram-positive and gram- negative bacteria. Composite beads prepared using nonionic surfactant were found to be effective in disinfecting the Staphylococcus aureus to different extents.

Research limitations/implications

Further studies are necessary for confirmation of the practical application, especially of the toxicity of Ag NPs, as well as the sorption properties of the alginate beads with Ag NPs.

Practical implications

The method provides a simple and practical solution to improving the synthesis of colloidal solutions of Ag NPs for water treatment process.

Originality/value

Contact nonequilibrium low-temperature plasma can be used as an effective technique for synthesis of nanomaterials.

Citation

Skiba, M.I. and Vorobyova, V. (2019), "The plasma-chemical formation of polysorbate 80-coated silver nanoparticles and composite materials for water treatment", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 48 No. 5, pp. 431-438. https://doi.org/10.1108/PRT-11-2018-0114