Blended Polymeric Nanofibres for Antimicrobial Activity

Abstract

Introduction : Polymeric nanofibers have gained significant due to their high surface area-to-volume ratio, tunable and excellent properties for functionalization. Among these, blended nanofibers created by combining different polymers offer improved mechanical strength, chemical stability, and enhanced bilogical activity. In this study, we synthesized and characterized novel blended polymeric nanofibers composed of Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Pectin, and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (NaCMC), and evaluated their antimicrobial activity against harmful pathogens.

Objective : To Synthesize and Characterize blended PVA-NaCMC-Pectin nanofibers and assess their antimicrobial activity against Staphyloccus aureus and Escherichia coli, exploring their potential application as novel antimicrobial agents.

Methods : Blended polymeric solution were prepared by combining PVA, NaCMC, Pectin, and fumaric acid as a crosslinker agent. This blended solution was used to fabricate nanofibers through electrospinning. The synthesized nanofibers were analyzed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The surface morphology of nanofiber were examined by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The antimicrobial activity of nanofibers was evalated using disk diffusion method against Staphyloccus aureus and Escherichia coli, measuring zones of inhibtion to determine efficacy.

Results : FTIR confirmed successful polymer blending and crosslinking, while SEM showed uniform nanofiber Morphology. Disk diffusion tests revealed clear inhibition zones against Staphyloccus aureus and Escherichia coli, confirming good antimicrobial activity.

Conclusion : This study presents blended PVA-NaCMC-Pectin nanofibers with good antimicrobial activity against both gram-positive and gram negative bacteria. These nanofibers show promise for medical and wound care application, through further studies on mechanism and safety are needed.