Probing the Physical and Antibacterial Features of SiO2@MoS2 Nanoparticle-Embellished PEO/Sodium Alginate/PVA Matrix for Sunscreens, Energy Storage, Food Preservation, and Unique Plasmonic Applications

Abstract

Herein, MoS₂-50 nm was integrated with SiO₂-50 nm utilizing a solid-state reaction process (SSRP). Various weight proportions of SiO₂@MoS₂ composite-reinforced nanoparticles (CRNPs) were presented into a ternary polymeric matrix (TPM) comprising PEO, sodium alginate, and PVA by the casting process. SEM findings revealed that PEO/sodium alginate/PVA had a well-ordered and homogenous surface topography with microcracks and cavities. Nonetheless, the improved dispersion of CRNPs without accumulating into TPM resulted in a stable dropping in holes and cracks. XRD patterns corroborated the crystallographic descriptions, revealing the semi-crystalline structure for all composite films. The average crystallite size declined from 21.685 nm (S₀) to 17.961 nm (S₂) and subsequently developed with CRNPs incorporation to 21.926 nm (S₃) and 23.289 nm (S₄), with a nominal average lattice strain of 3.689 × 10⁻³ after integration. The optical results showed an enormous upturn in optical absorbance values coupled by appearances of surface plasmonic resonance at about (651 nm) upon CRNPs integration technique. Enclosure of CRNPs resulted in considerable decline in direct and indirect bandgap values from 5.2 to 1.8 eV and 2.5 to 1.1 eV, respectively, and such results are almost identical to dielectric constants. Extraordinarily, dielectric values improved with the development of CRNP addition and frequency values. Fabricated membranes demonstrate significant antibacterial effect, with greatest zone improvement (D = 20–26 mm) for Escherichia coli and (D = 22–37 mm) for Staphylococcus, resulting in the bacteria being thawed inside the inhibition zones. The resultants are considered key for sunscreens, energy storage, food preservation, and unique plasmonic applications.