Multifunctional Textile from Green Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using the Aqueous Extract of Cladophora Vagabunda

Abstract

The rise of nanotechnology involves the use of harmful chemicals that is why the study used green synthesis in order to lessen and further eliminate the production of toxic by-products. An unwanted algae in Taal lake, known as Cladophora Vagabunda, was utilized in the synthesis. Textile was treated with AgNPs to improve its usefulness and suitability in everyday usage. For the methodology, strips of cotton fabric were soaked in algae-silver nitrate solution, pure silver nitrate solution, pure algae extract solution, and pure deionized water. The setups underwent visual observation where in the experimental setup exhibited a change in colorfrom green to yellow-brown. The setups were also characterized through Scanning Electron Microscopy where the sample showed aggregations of AgNPs ranging from 400-700nm and the Energy Dispersive X-ray further confirmed the presence of silver in the sample while the Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy evaluated the organic profile of the textile. The contact angle measure was 51° which is caused by the high wettability and hydrophilicity of the surface. The conductivity of the textile was also measured through resistance testing. The Disk Diffusion Assay was then used to determine the antibacterial activity of the textiles. The zones of inhibition against S. aureus and E. coli ranging from 9-10 mm were recorded. Based on the testings, the cotton textile embedded with silver nanoparticles green synthesized using the extract of Cladophora Vagabunda exhibited antibacterial properties.