Novel Antibacterial Polyglycidols: Relationship between Structure and Properties

Abstract

Antimicrobial polymers are an attractive alternative to low molecular weight biocides, because they are non-volatile, chemically stable, and can be used as non-releasing additives. Polymers with pendant quaternary ammonium groups and hydrophobic chains exhibit antimicrobial properties due to the electrostatic interaction between polymer and cell wall, and the membrane disruptive capabilities of the hydrophobic moiety. Herein, the synthesis of cationic-hydrophobic polyglycidols with varying structures by post-polymerization modification is presented. The antimicrobial properties of the prepared polyglycidols against E. coli and S. aureus are examined. Polyglycidol with statistically distributed cationic and hydrophobic groups (cationic-hydrophobic balance of 1:1) is compared to (i) polyglycidol with a hydrophilic modification at the cationic functionality; (ii) polyglycidol with both-cationic and hydrophobic groups-at every repeating unit; and (iii) polyglycidol with a cationic-hydrophobic balance of 1:2. A relationship between structure and properties is presented.

Surface antimicrobial functionalization with polymers: fabrication, mechanisms and applications

“…It was reported that the surface antimicrobial properties were strongly affected by the ratios and distribution of cationic and hydrophobic functionalities, indicating that the post-polymerization reactions can not only enhance the surface antimicrobial functions but also modulate the antimicrobial ability. 46…”

Two AIEE-active α-cyanostilbene derivatives containing BF2 unit for detecting explosive picric acid in aqueous medium

“… 14–21 Therefore, it is of great significance to design and understand the relationships between structure and property for their further applications. 22–24 …”