Macro-Size Regenerated Cellulose Fibre Embedded with Graphene Oxide with Antibacterial Properties

Abstract

Macro-size regenerated cellulose fibres (RCFs) with embedded graphene oxide (GO) were fabricated by dissolving cellulose in a pre-cooled sodium hydroxide (NaOH)/urea solution and regenerated in sulphuric acid (H2SO4) coagulant. Initially, GO was found to disperse well in the cellulose solution due to intercalation with the cellulose; however, this cellulose–GO intercalation was disturbed during the regeneration process, causing agglomeration of GO in the RCF mixture. Agglomerated GO was confirmed at a higher GO content under a Dino-Lite microscope. The crystallinity index (CrI) and thermal properties of the RCFs increased with increasing GO loadings, up to 2 wt.%, and reduced thereafter. Cellulose–GO intercalation was observed at lower GO concentrations, which enhanced the crystallinity and thermal properties of the RCF–GO composite. It was shown that the GO exhibited antibacterial properties in the RCF–GO composite, with the highest bacterial inhibition against E. coli and S. aureus.