Fabrication and biomedical applications of platinum-cellulose nanocomposites

• Platinum-modified nanocomposites exhibit remarkable antibacterial activity. • Platinum-enhanced nanocomposites show excellent mechanical and thermal properties. • Platinum nanoparticles alter the nanocomposite characteristics. Cellulose acetate-based nanocomposites represent a promising platform for developing advanced antibacterial materials with potential biomedical applications. Staphylococcus aureus , a leading cause of skin infections, poses a significant challenge due to its resistance to conventional treatments. Therefore, searching for biocompatible materials with enhanced antibacterial activity remains essential. Here, we show that Pt-cellulose acetate nanocomposites exhibit remarkable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus , resulting from the integration of approximately 250 nm platinum nanoparticles into the polymer matrix. These composites demonstrate bacteriostatic and anti-adhesive properties while maintaining low toxicity to fibroblast cells. Furthermore, the Pt-modified nanocomposites exhibit excellent mechanical and thermal properties, as well as increased hydrophilicity. The slight enhancement in thermal stability and hardness improvements can be attributed to optimal nanoparticle density in the nanocomposite. The gradual release of platinum ions (<160 µg/cm 2 ) ensures sustained antibacterial efficacy. These findings underscore the crucial role of metallic nanoparticles in altering the nanocomposite characteristics.