Chitosan-stabilized ZnO Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Applications in Wastewater Treatment | Chapter 5 |Chemistry and Biochemistry: Research Progress Vol. 7

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) are widely recognised for their strong antibacterial properties, making them highly valuable in environmental and biomedical applications. Their appeal lies in their affordability, non-toxic nature, and environmental friendliness. Thanks to their high chemical stability and low toxicity, ZnO nanoparticles are frequently used in disinfectants and in the removal of pollutants from water.

 

One promising strategy for enhancing the utility of these nanoparticles involves combining them with natural polymers. Among these, chitosan—a biodegradable, biocompatible, and hydrophilic polymer derived from chitin—stands out for its own intrinsic antibacterial properties. When metal-based nanoparticles like ZnO are embedded in chitosan, the resulting nanocomposites benefit from both the antimicrobial strength of the metal and the stability and safety of the polymer.

 

This chapter presents a green synthesis approach where zinc oxide nanoparticles are stabilised within a chitosan matrix using an alkaline solidification process. The resulting chitosan–ZnO nanocomposite offers multiple advantages, including improved dispersion (non-aggregated nature), recyclability, and enhanced antibacterial action. Such materials hold great promise for diverse applications, particularly in water purification, bacterial control, and prevention of biofouling.

 

Author(s) Details

Anitta Antony
Department of Chemistry, St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam, Kochi, 682035, India.

 

Ajil PA
Department of Chemistry, St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam, Kochi, 682035, India.

 

Jaya T Varkey

Department of Chemistry, St. Teresa’s College, Ernakulam, Kochi, 682035, India.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/cbrp/v7/5858