Investigating the release of ZnO nanoparticles from cement mortars on microbiological models

Abstract

Incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) into cement mortars may provide additional functions, e.g., self-cleaning and antibacterial or electroconductive ability. However, these NPs are also known for their potential toxicity. During the life cycle of a cement mortar, various abrasive forces cause the release of admixtures to the natural environment. The effect of the released NPs on model microorganisms has not been extensively studied. Previous studies have shown that nanomaterials may affect various microorganisms’ physiological responses, including changes in metabolic activity, biofilming, or growth rate. In this study, we have focused on evaluating the response of model microorganisms, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans, towards ZnO nanoparticles released from cement mortars in different deterioration scenarios. The addition of ZnO nanoparticles to cement mortars had a noticeable effect on impeding the strength development. We have also detected that depending on the deterioration scenario, the release of ZnO nanoparticles was varied. Our studies have also shown that even though the release of nanoform ZnO could be limited by poor dispersion or the used filtration technique, the eluates have caused slight but statistically significant changes in the physiological features of studied microorganisms showing relatively low toxicity.

Recent Advancements in the Nanomaterial Application in Concrete and Its Ecological Impact

“…The advancement and progress of nanotechnology can upgrade the properties of building/construction materials, and thus assist sustainability [148][149][150][151]. There are obvious benefits related to the development of several nano-enabled products; however, there might also be dangers.…”

Influence of Rhamnolipids and Ionic Cross-Linking Conditions on the Mechanical Properties of Alginate Hydrogels as a Model Bacterial Biofilm

“…An example of such microorganisms is the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Extensive research is carried out to understand the properties of biofilms created by these microorganisms [32,60,61], and some of the conducted studies have shown that the viscoelastic properties of these biofilms are resistant to chemical treatment and strong shear forces, allowing to efficiently recover from mechanical damage [62]. So far, the function of rhamnolipids in biofilms, consisting in preserve the pores and channels between microcolonies, enabling the passage of liquid and nutrients within mature biofilms, has been primarily emphasized [61].…”

“…In our research, we focused on the influence of rhamnolipids on the mechanical properties of an alginate hydrogel. Rhamnolipids is a group of biosurfactants, which are produced by many microorganisms, including the most studied opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa [31,32]. They are classified as glycolipids and consist of a mono-or disaccharide molecule connected by a glycosidic bond to a fatty acid.…”

Fabrication of Paper Sheets Coatings Based on Chitosan/Bacterial Nanocellulose/ZnO with Enhanced Antibacterial and Mechanical Properties

“…In addition, nanoparticles, such as silver, copper, or zinc oxide, are used as one of the components to enhance the antimicrobial properties of paper packaging. Zinc oxide is widely used in research concerning electronics, photocatalysis, sensors, construction materials, and medicine [ 13 , 14 ]. It is considered GRAS (generally recognized as safe) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and can be used as a part of food packaging [ 15 , 16 ].…”