The Benefits of the ZnO/Clay Composite Formation as a Promising Antifungal Coating for Paint Applications

Abstract

Featured Application: Herein, we provide an inorganic composite as a paint preservative for antifungal applications. From a paint commercial additive, we add synthesized ZnO nanoparticles in order to improve the antimicrobial response. The main aim of this study is to generate a cost-efficient, eco-friendly material, without human health risk. We have developed a method for the controlled dispersion of ZnO nanoparticles on paint additive through a cooperative assembly-directed process at room temperature. The antifungal response of the inorganic composite is tested against the common fungi, Aspergillus niger. In this work we take a step further, studying the composite developed in a paint application. We believe that this paper can serve as a turning point in the search of alternative preservatives against fungi in different environments from industrial to hospital. Abstract:The presence of mold is a serious problem in different environments as industrial, agricultural, hospital and household, especially for human health. Large quantities of mold spores can potentially cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Therefore, it is essential to keep buildings free of fungi without harming human health and the environment. Here, we pose a composite of modified bentonite clay and ZnO nanoparticles as an alternative antifungal preservative. The new composite is obtained by an easy and eco-friendly method based on a dry nanodispersion, without altering the properties of each material. The antifungal test reveals a robust response against fungi thanks to the ZnO nanoparticles' contribution. Our results reveal that the antifungal activity of ZnO/clay composite is governed by both a uniform distribution and an adequate concentration of the ZnO nanoparticles onto the clay surface. Specifically, we find that for concentration below 10 wt.% of the ZnO nanoparticles, the nanoparticles are well dispersed onto clay giving rise to an excellent antifungal response. By contrast, when the concentration of ZnO increases, the formation of ZnO agglomerates onto the clay surface is favored. This effect provokes that antifungal behavior changes towards a more moderate improvement. Finally, we have demonstrated that this composite can be used as a promising paint preservative for antifungal applications.

Synergistic effect of combining metallic and mineral nanoparticles on the improvement of the performance of active poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) packaging films

“…Furthermore, we observe a new shoulder at 540 cm −1 in the PBAT/C15A/ZnO ternary system, indicating the formation of SiOZn bonds. Prior studies have associated this bond with a dehydroxylation reaction on the surface of the C15A clay 36,37 . These findings provide clear evidence of the immobilization of ZnO NPs on the surface of the C15A clay layers.…”

“…Prior studies have associated this bond with a dehydroxylation reaction on the surface of the C15A clay. 36,37 These findings provide clear evidence of the immobilization of ZnO NPs on the surface of the C15A clay layers.…”

Advances and Challenges in Developing Efficient Graphene Oxide-Based ZnO Photocatalysts for Dye Photo-Oxidation

“…The efficiency of photodegradation can be enhanced by modifying the surface morphology or architecture of ZnO-based photocatalysts. The use of ZnO-based nanomaterials has attracted considerable attention in the study of photocatalysis due to the high ratio of surface area to volume, added to the already exceptional physiochemical properties and surface functionalities of nanomaterials, which can promote both the adsorption of dyes and their reactivity [12,[24][25][26][27]84,85]. ZnO-based nanomaterials can be easily synthesized using various techniques in multiple architectures, shapes and morphologies, including nano-sheets, nano-belts, nanorods, nano-dumbbells, nanowires, nano-spiral disks, neotheropods, and nano-flowers.…”

Facile and Sustainable Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles: Effect of Gelling Agents on ZnO Shapes and Their Photocatalytic Performance

“…It is one of the few multifunctional materials thanks to its many interesting physical, chemical, and optoelectronic properties, which confer it to be a material used in various fields of applications, such as solar cells, gas sensors, depollution (water and air) by photocatalytic effect, etc. This oxide has already found potential industrial applications, such as rubber, paints, animal feed, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. − ZnO has very good thermal and chemical stability, is nontoxic and biocompatible, − and the raw materials necessary for its production are abundant …”