How Do Nanomaterials Exhibit Antimicrobial Properties?
Nanomaterials exhibit antimicrobial properties through various mechanisms. These include:
1. Disruption of Cell Membranes: Nanoparticles like silver nanoparticles can attach to and penetrate bacterial cell membranes, causing structural damage and leakage of cellular contents. 2. Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS): Some nanomaterials, such as titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO), produce ROS under light exposure, which can damage cellular components like DNA, proteins, and lipids. 3. Metal Ion Release: Nanoparticles can release metal ions (e.g., silver ions from silver nanoparticles) that are toxic to microorganisms. 4. Photothermal Effects: Certain nanomaterials can convert light into heat, thereby killing microorganisms through localized heating.
