Development and Antimicrobial Performance of Chitosan–Silver Nanocomposites as Sustainable Biomaterials for Building Technology Applications

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly materials has driven the development of bio-based nanocomposites with enhanced functional properties. In this study, chitosan, a naturally derived biopolymer from crustacean shells, was engaged as a matrix for the synthesis of chitosan-silver nanocomposites. The nanocomposites were biosynthesized via an in-situ reduction method, using nanosilver and the leaf extract of Nicotiana tabacum as a stabilizing and reducing agent, respectively, thereby eliminating the need for harmful chemicals. The prepared nanocomposites were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) to confirm the functional groups, crystallinity, and surface area dispersion of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) within the chitosan matrix. Results demonstrated the successful biosynthesis of large-surface-area silver nanoparticles with strong interactions with the chitosan backbone. The antimicrobial activity of the nanocomposites was evaluated against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, showing significant inhibitory effects compared to pure chitosan. This work highlights the potential of utilizing bioresources in the development of functional nanocomposites for biomedical and environmental applications, contributing to the advancement of sustainable nanotechnology.