Synthesis and evaluation of silver nanoparticles loaded with Gemini surfactants: Surface and antimicrobial activity

• Increasing the spacer chain length of Gemini surfactants stabilizes silver nanoparticles.
• Decreasing spacer chain increases the antibacterial activity of silver nanoparticles.
• Gemini–silver nanoparticles increase antibacterial activity than silver nanoparticles.

Silver nanoparticles loaded by three Gemini cationic surfactants having different spacer chain length were prepared and characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) absorption spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis. TEM analysis showed the homogeneity and stability of the formed silver nanoparticles in the presence of the Gemini surfactants. The results showed increased activity of the silver nanoparticles in the presence of the Gemini cationic surfactants. Antimicrobial results of inhibition zone diameter and minimum inhibitory concentration were correlated to Gemini surfactants and their nanoparticles including surface activity and tendency toward adsorption at interfaces.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide