Bactericidal activity of Ag-doped multi-walled carbon nanotubes and the effects of extracellular polymeric substances and natural organic matter

► Ag0/MWCNTs exhibit a stronger antibacterial effect on E. coli than MWCNTs and Ag NPs. ► OHb, OHs, and h+ contribute to the antibacterial effect of Ag0/MWCNTs. ► Inactivation effects of reactive species are achieved by direct contact with cells. ► Removal of EPS induces greater bactericidal effect. ► SRHA mitigates bactericidal effects due to sorption on the surfaces of Ag0/MWCNTs.