Antimicrobial properties of polysiloxane/polyoxometallates

Nanocomposites based on Keggin-type polyoxometalate H₅PV₂Mo₁₀O₄₀ (POM) and organically modified silicate (Ormosil) were prepared by sol-gel processes. The physical properties of the Ormosil/POM composites were examined using FTIR, UV, SEM, TEM and XRD. These techniques indicated that the POM was bond to the Ormosil matrix after impregnation. The antibacterial effects of Ormosil/POM and the Ormosil+POM were assessed by the zone of inhibition, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). A higher POM proportion used in the Ormosil/POM yielded a stronger antimicrobial effect that was superior to Ormosil+POM. The excellent antibacterial performance of Ormosil/POM-10 compositean was discovered. Ormosil/POM composites were therefore believed to have great potential for use as an antibacterial material. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.].