Synthesis, characterization, enhanced dielectric and antimicrobial properties of WxCu1−xO nanostructures

Herein, we report the chemical synthesis of Wx Cu1−xO nanostructures with varying concentration of dopant (x = 0.00, 0.01, 0.03 and 0.05). The as-obtained doped CuO nanostructures have been investigated to evaluate their physio-chemical properties like crystallinity, morphology, optical features and infrared active modes. The dielectric study shows that doping induces a significant increase in real permittivity. In addition, the doped nanostructures also show potential towards inhibition of pathogenic microbes. The antimicrobial activity of prepared nanostructures determined against four different bacterial strains shows that W doped CuO nanostructures possess a strong antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, and K. pneumoniae and an intermediate activity against E. coli and C. albicans. These finding recognize the use of W doped CuO nanostructures in permittivity materials and bacterial disinfection nanomaterials.