Synthesis, characterization and biocidal efficiency of quaternary ammonium polymers silver nanohybrids against sulfate reducing bacteria

Cationic quaternary ammonium polymers containing nonionic polyethylene glycol chains of different molecular weight were prepared by using polyethylene terephthalate glycolyzed polymer. The prepared cationic polymeric surfactants were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscope (TEM). Silver nanoparticles with a diameter in the range of 24-35 nm were prepared using trisodium citrate as reducing agent and were successfully loaded on the prepared cationic surfactants to form their nanohybrids. UV-Vis spectra showed the loading of silver nanoparticles on the cationic surfactants; while, TEM results showed high stability of the silver nanoparticles assembled on the cationic polymers with diameters ranging from 34 to 73 nm. The prepared cationic polymers and their silver nanohybrids were evaluated for their antimicrobial efficiency against sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) using the serial dilution method. Antimicrobial assay showed that the prepared cationic surfactants have good antimicrobial activities against SRB and their nanohybrids were effectively enhanced the antimicrobial efficiency.