In situ synthesized novel biocompatible titania–chitosan nanocomposites with high surface area and antibacterial activity

A series of titania–chitosan nanocomposites (2:x (0.12, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 g)) were synthesized using in situ sol–gel method and comprehensively characterized using conventional techniques. The resultant particles showed anatase phase, spherical and irregular morphology with particle size of 4.5–10.5 nm. Nanocomposites with higher surface area (114–265 m2/g) and high purity were obtained. The characterized samples were analyzed in 1.5 mM simulated body fluid (1.5 SBF) and human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line to explore the bioactivity and biocompatibility. Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus was also evaluated. The formation of apatite layer on 1.5 SBF-immersed samples confirms the bioactivity of all the nanocomposites. High surface area, appropriate hydroxyapatite formation, specific antibacterial action, increased cell viability, controlled swelling and degrading rate are favorably achieved at 2:1 nanocomposite ratio. This study shows titania–chitosan nanocomposites as the promising biomaterial for orthopedic and tissue engineering applications.

► In situ synthesized TiO2–chitosan series exhibit high surface area (208–265 m2/g).
► TiO2–chitosan (2:1, v/v) shows enhanced bioactivity and antibacterial activity.
► No significant cytotoxicity in the prepared nanocomposites.
► Swelling behavior of composites increases the probability of cell attachment.
► Optimization of TiO2–chitosan nanocomposites for biomedical applications.