Trimetallic Nanocomposites Grafted on Modified PET Substrate Revealing Antibacterial Effect Against Escherichia coli

The microbial resistance era prompts researchers to find new effective antimicrobial agents. Trimetallic nanocomposites consisting of AuAg nanostructures and iron oxide nanoparticles can represent an efficient tool to inhibit bacterial growth as demonstrated here. The trimetallic nanocomposites, prepared by green chemistry approach, are grafted on a modified, plasma-treated, flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. Spectroscopic and microscopic characterization of the trimetallic nanocomposites grafted on modified PET together with antibacterial tests confirm the successful applicability of the newly developed material: a statistically significant antibacterial effect against <i>E. coli</i> is proven. This effect is further pronounced by a short time (5 min) UVA light (365 nm) irradiation. The present work thus reports on the feasible preparation of the brand-new material that is successfully used in <i>E. coli</i> colony growth regulations. The impact of small noble metal nanostructures containing Ag and UVA light-activated iron oxide particles on the bacterium can be combined and results in the improved antibacterial performance of the final material. Employing such material may represent a potential strategy for fighting against the development of bacteria resistance.