A graphene/silver-PCL/PVP-based nanocomposite membrane produced by electrospinning provides protection against coronavirus and pathogenic bacteria

Abstract

The spread of infectious diseases through air and contaminated surfaces is a constant threat to public health. The development of porous materials based on nanofibers incorporated with antimicrobial compounds results in the production of multifunctional composites that may control the spread of infectious agents. This study aimed to develop and characterize nanofibers incorporated with graphene oxide and silver nanoparticles (GOAg), produced by electrospinning. The GOAg nanocomposite was synthesized and incorporated into a poly(ε-caprolactone) and (PCL)/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (1:1) blend solution and used to produce nanofibers. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Raman spectroscopy initially confirmed that the GOAg nanocomposite exhibited silver nanoparticles (diameter, 10.4 ± 4.0 nm) anchored onto GO sheets. The GOAg-PCL/PVP nanofibers were characterized in terms of morphological, chemical, thermal, and mechanical features and their biological activities against bacteria and MHV-3 coronavirus. The GOAg-PCL/PVP nanofiber presented a porous structure, with a diameter of 0.52 ± 0.38 µm, and improved thermal and mechanical properties. Furthermore, the GOAg-PCL/PVP nanofiber inactivated 99.97% coronavirus, inhibited the growth of S. aureus (98%), E. coli (62%), and P. aeruginosa (48%) bacteria, and was not cytotoxic to fibroblasts. The GOAg-PCL/PVP nanofiber exhibits significant physicochemical properties and antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for the development of a multifunctional nanocomposite for health applications. These materials are particularly suitable for advanced filters for air filtration and purification, especially for use in personal protective equipment used during viral outbreaks or pandemics.