Composite Films Based on Silver‐Zeolite/Polymer as Efficient Antifungals

Abstract

This work analyzes the preparation and antifungal behavior of composite films formed by a mixed matrix of Ag‐zeolite crystals immobilized in a continuous polymer phase. The physicochemical qualities of films prepared with Ag‐exchanged mordenite (Ag‐MOR) dispersed in polysulfone (PSF), polyimide (PI) or polyetherimide (PEI) were thoroughly analyzed by means of various techniques such as SEM, EDS, XRD, UV‐VIS, FTIR‐ATR, TGA‐SDTA and XPS. Subsequently, the composites were evaluated as antifungal materials for the control of P. roqueforti isolated from contaminated foods of industrial origin. Of all the systems studied, Ag‐MOR/PI demonstrated an outstanding antifungal activity, acting effectively in the control of this mold and reducing the colony growth (CFU mL−1) by a factor of 5 Log after 24 h of contact. This activity was due to highly dispersed cationic silver species immobilized in the film which were effectively dosed towards the microorganism. The Ag‐mordenite/polymer nanocomposite films represent a technological alternative in the search of novel materials for the control of fungal growth.

Nanosilver-loaded metal–organic framework UiO-66 with strong fungicidal activity

“…8–10 Even these types of matrices have shown effectiveness when immobilized on structured supports such as cotton or polymers. 11,12…”

“…[8][9][10] Even these types of matrices have shown effectiveness when immobilized on structured supports such as cotton or polymers. 11,12 In recent years, a family of hybrid inorganic-organic solids named metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) has emerged arousing increasing interest in several applied fields and, recently, in microbiological control. 13 MOF-based materials with antimicrobial properties have been obtained either using the MOF as a reservoir of metal ions, employing bioactive molecules as linkers, or as a carrier for the administration of different antimicrobial molecules.…”