Introduction

Sodium alginate has been manufactured using biomaterial nanotechnology in the nanometer size range. Nanocomposites exhibit features of high solubility and effective degradation of toxic substances, including heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare wastes. This project observes the swelling capacity of sustainably developed sodium alginate-poly sodium acrylate silver nanocomposites and their potential enhanced degradation of toxic organic materials, especially in wastewater.

Methodology

Sodium alginate-poly sodium acrylate polymer beads embedded with silver nanoparticles were prepared through ionotropic crosslinking in calcium chloride solution, followed by free radical polymerization initiated by ammonium persulfate. The synthesized beads were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, and electron microscopy.

Swelling behavior was assessed gravimetrically, while antibacterial activity was evaluated against clinically relevant pathogens, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, via the incubation method. Additionally, the catalytic efficiency of the beads in degrading Congo red and 2-nitrophenol was investigated in the presence of sodium borohydride.

Preliminary results

‏The spherical and porous nanocomposite beads demonstrated a significant swelling ability, attributed to their composition of poly sodium acrylate. A distinct surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak near 400nm confirmed the presence of silver nanoparticles. These beads further effectively suppressed the growth of E. coli and P. aeruginosa and achieved almost a complete breakdown of Congo red and 2-nitrophenol within 30 minutes.

Conclusion and work-in-progress:

The nanocomposite beads exhibited antimicrobial and catalytic capabilities, suggesting their suitability for future hospital wastewater treatment. Current efforts are directed toward assessing their reusability and performance with actual wastewater samples.