Abstract
Water pollution demands urgent global attention. Nanotechnology offers a green decontamination alternative, but current solutions fall short in terms of efficiency, scalability, and long-term protection. This study introduces a novel nanohybrid material, TiO2-NCO/E, obtained by grafting Econea® biocide onto TiO2anatase nanoparticles. A suite of methodologies was used to scrutinize its physical-chemical structure, composition, morphology, optical properties, and stability. The new TiO2-NCO/E (0.5 g/L) exhibited improved photocatalytic performance, notably a 78% increase in a methylene blue degradation kinetic rate under visible (450 nm) light compared to pristine TiO2. Furthermore, the TiO2-NCO/E hampered the growth of World Health Organization-prioritized Gram-positive and Gram-negative waterborne pathogens in dark and UV-A irradiation conditions, enhancing its antimicrobial impact. The characterization of the mechanisms of action of the novel TiO2-NCO/E revealed that this nanohybrid material targets bacterial cell membranes and induces metabolic activity changes and oxidative stress in bacteria. Additionally, insights into the morphology and biophysical changes on inactivated methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and V. cholerae bacteria following treatment with the TiO2-NCO/E revealed synergistic antimicrobial effects from both the biocide and TiO2. Overall, the findings highlight the tailoring nature of TiO2, supporting its use in water decontamination processes. This study aims to inspire further research and development in pursuing sustainable and green solutions to environmental pollution.
Highlights
• A novel biocide-grafted TiO2 nanohybrid was synthesized for water decontamination.
• Enhanced photocatalytic degradation under visible and UV light was observed.
• The nanohybrid exhibited 98% methylene blue photodegradation under visible light.
• Broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity was demonstrated against key pathogens.
• The material targets cell membranes and induces metabolic changes and ROS production.
Source of the publication: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0959652625002872?via%3Dihub