Abstract
In an effort at developing new filters and bio-packaging materials with antibacterial properties, nanocomposite fluorescence films of cellulose acetate reinforced with cellulose nanoparticles, methylcellulose nanoparticles, propylcellulose nanoparticles, toluene diisocyanate modified cellulose and cellulose acetate nanoparticles were prepared and characterized. The effects of the nanoparticles on the mechanical, crystallinity and morphology of the nanocomposite films was studied. The sensitivity of bacteria against the new nanocomposite films was experimented. Scanning electron microscopy showed the films to be well dispersed. Modulus increase was directly proportional to nanoparticle loading. Samples with maximum compatibility were cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) loading of 40% with modulus of 113.3Mpa and toluene diisocyanate modified cellulose nanoparticles (TDI-CNPs) at 20% loading had 146.0Mpa. Others include cellulose acetate nanoparticles (CANPs) at 30% loading with 73.0Mpa; methylcellulose acetate nanoparticles (MCNPs) with 5% loading had a modulus of 87.3Mpa and pure cellulose acetate had 45.0Mpa. The films were applied as filters for the removal of cells of Bacillus; Enterococcus and Micrococcus sp. from the crude bacteriocin, with recoverability of 95.9% based on the bacteriocin produced. The films showed limited antibacterial properties against clinical Pseudomonas sp 1, Pseudomonas sp 2 and Proteus sp. It is concluded that the films showed limited antibacterial properties hence it has antibacterial potentials and capabilities.