Preparation and characterization of silver-modified poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyethyleneimine hybrids as a chemical and biological protective material

Nanohybrid membranes based on the silver (Ag) and a poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyethyleneimine (PVA/PEI) blend were prepared by an in-situ reduction method, in which the silver nitrate, PVA and PEI acted as precursor, linker and polyamine reductant, respectively. The objective of the study was to develop and evaluate permeable membranes (PVA/PEI) impregnated with Ag nanoparticulates that can protect against simulants of chemical and biological warfare agents. The physical properties of the PVA/PEI-Ag hybrids were examined using SEM, TEM, TGA, and UV-vis spectroscopy, the results indicated that the Ag was incorporated in the PVA/PEI matrix after impregnation. The Ag content and surface morphology of the PVA/PEI-Ag hybrids depended on the initial concentration of AgNO3. The chemical barrier properties against 2-chloroethyl-ethyl sulfide (CEES) were investigated based on static-diffusion method with gas chromatograph (GC). The antibacterial effects of the PVA/PEI-Ag hybrids were assessed by the zone of inhibition, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and plate-counting methods. The results of this study showed that PVA/PEI-Ag hybrids that act against simulants of chemical and biological weapons while retaining their ability to transmit moisture vapor could be obtained.