Study of the Influence of the Process Parameters in the Characteristics of Silver‐loaded Zeolite Complexes

Abstract

Zeolite has a great capacity of adsorption and ion exchange. Silver ions are impregnated into the zeolite matrix by ion exchange, which results in the formation of an antimicrobial complex. By using a factorial design, this study explores the influence of pH, temperature, and silver nitrate concentration on the characteristics of ZeAg complexes. The ZeAg8 complex, produced with the factors of [AgNO3] of 4000 mg/L, pH 5 and T 45 °C showed promising results, showing antimicrobial activity, and maintained an original crystalline structure of the zeolite after the experimental conditions. Experimental design analysis showed that lower pH and temperature favored larger particle diameter and induce disruption of the crystalline structure of the zeolite. Silver ions impregnation into zeolite under specific conditions create a potential antimicrobial complex for wound dressings, promoting tissue regeneration and healing while preventing potential complications associated with silver treatment.