Porous g-C3N4-Based Nanocomposites with Metal Oxide Nanoparticles for Antibacterial Applications and Method of Making the Same

Abstract

This invention presents a novel antibacterial nanocomposite material comprising porous graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) integrated with copper oxide (CuO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or their combination. Synthesized through a scalable, one-step solid-state process, the nanocomposite offers broad-spectrum antibacterial efficacy, effectively targeting both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The synergistic interaction between the high-surface-area g-C3N4 matrix and metal oxide nanoparticles enhances antibacterial potency by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) and releasing metal ions, which disrupt bacterial membranes and cellular processes. The composite’s structure, stability, and biocompatibility make it an ideal candidate for applications across healthcare, water treatment, food packaging, and environmental remediation. This eco-friendly material addresses antibiotic resistance challenges while minimizing environmental impact, providing a durable, versatile solution for widespread antibacterial needs.

Specification

Description:This invention relates to the field of nanomaterials, particularly antibacterial nanocomposites composed of g-C3N4 and metal oxides (CuO, ZnO, CuO/ZnO). , C , C , Claims:1. A method for synthesizing antibacterial nanocomposites, the method comprising:
Mixing melamine with copper acetate and/or zinc acetate as precursors for forming porous graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) combined with copper oxide (CuO), zinc oxide (ZnO), or a CuO/ZnO mixture.
Subjecting the mixture to grinding for uniform distribution of the precursors.
Conducting a heat treatment of the mixture in a muffle furnace at a temperature between 500°C and 600°C for approximately 2 hours to form the g-C3N4/metal oxide nanocomposite.
2. The nanocomposite material produced by the method of claim 1, wherein the material comprises:
A porous g-C3N4 matrix with uniformly embedded CuO, ZnO, or CuO/ZnO nanoparticles.
Nanoparticles with a size range between 10 nm and 50 nm.
3. The nanocomposite material of claim 2, wherein the material demonstrates antibacterial activity through:
The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under light exposure, inducing oxidative stress and cellular damage in bacterial cells.
The release of metal ions (Cu²⁺ and/or Zn²⁺) that disrupt bacterial cell membranes and inhibit vital cellular processes.
4. The nanocomposite material of claim 2, wherein the antibacterial activity is effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the nanocomposite synthesis is performed via a one-step solid-state reaction, avoiding the need for solvents or additional purification steps, making the process environmentally sustainable and scalable.
6. The nanocomposite material of claim 2, wherein the porous structure of g-C3N4 increases the surface area, enhancing the interaction between the material and bacterial cells to improve antibacterial efficacy.
7. The nanocomposite material of claim 2, wherein the CuO and/or ZnO nanoparticles release ions that penetrate bacterial cell membranes, interfering with DNA, protein synthesis, and enzymatic activities within the bacterial cells.
8. The nanocomposite material of claim 2, which retains long-term antibacterial stability without significant degradation, making it suitable for extended applications in various environments.
9. A method for using the nanocomposite material of claim 2 in applications including:
Medical devices, wound dressings, and sterilization tools to prevent bacterial infections.
Water treatment systems for bacterial disinfection, enhancing water quality and safety.
10. The nanocomposite material of claim 2, wherein the material is compatible with environmental remediation applications, utilizing its photocatalytic properties to break down organic pollutants in water.

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