Polyurethane foam reinforced with Ag nanoparticle decorated ZnO nanorods: a dual-functional approach for improved antibacterial and mechanical properties

This study introduces a novel approach by incorporating pristine ZnO nanorods and Ag nanoparticles decorated ZnO nanorods into a polyurethane foam matrix. This synergistic combination aims to enhance the foam’s antibacterial properties while investigating its impact on mechanical strength. Nanoparticles and prepared nanopolymer were characterized by different methods like XRD, TEM, SEM, and EDS. The mechanical characteristics and antibacterial properties of prepared polyurethane composites were investigated in the presence of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis. A much higher level than reported in the literature was found for PU films filled with ZnO nanorods. Incorporating nanoparticles into polyurethane nanocomposites has been demonstrated to significantly improve polyurethane’s antibacterial properties. The results revealed that ZnO/PU antibacterial efficiency decreased with increasing ZnO nanofiller content, while AgNPs@ZnO/PU composite antibacterial efficiency increased with increasing AgNPs@ZnO nanofiller content. Also, the weak coordinate bond between ZnO and Ag in the PU chain extender was demonstrated. Increasing the ZnO content to 1.4 wt% resulted in greater Young’s modulus and tensile strength, which increased when the ZnO content was increased further. Such a dual-functional enhancement holds promise for applications requiring both antimicrobial efficacy and mechanical integrity.