Chung J., Lee S.
Yonsei University, KR
Keywords: germanium, nanocomposite fiber, silicon dioxide
Far-infrared radiation effect and antibacterial properties were introduced in PVA nanofibrous membrane using germanium (Ge) and silicon dioxide (SiO2). Composite fibers containing Ge and SiO2 were fabricated at various concentrations of Ge and/or SiO2 using electrospinning and layered on polypropylene nonwoven. The morphological properties of Ge/SiO2/PVA nanocomposite fibers were characterized using a field-emission scanning electron microscope and a transmission electron microscope. Far-infrared emissivity and emissive power of Ge/SiO2/PVA nanocomposite fibers were examined in the range of 5~20μm of wavelength at 37℃. Antibacterial properties were assessed quantitatively by measuring the bacterial reductions of Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. Layered fabric systems with electrospun PVA nanofibrous membranes containing Ge and SiO2 nanoparticles showed significant increases in far-infrared emissivity and emissive power. The system exhibited a 99.9% bacterial reduction against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and showed a 34.8% reduction in Klebsiella pneumoniae. These results indicate that PVA nanofibrous membranes containing Ge and SiO2 have high potential for medical and healthcare applications.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2012: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites (Volume 1)
Published: June 18, 2012
Pages: 99 - 100
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Materials Characterization & Imaging
ISBN: 978-1-4665-6274-5